TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
I am a bookworm/readaholic who spent several years studying literature (undergraduate and graduate levels), teaching and doing intermittent freelance magazine work. I fell into techwriting a little over a year ago, and found that I really love this field and would like to continue in it and build a career. On my first techwriting job (contract), I was fortunate enough to work with a group of experienced technical writers who taught me a great deal. Since then, I've worked alone, and only on the kinds of documentation with which I'd already had experience (computer network documentation). I began subscribing to this and other documentation-related listservs in an effort to learn more and to catch up /keep up with techwriting industry trends. In just the few days that I've been reading these lists, I've realized how little I know, and how far behind I am.
I've just recently begun a new position, which will very shortly entail developing end-user documentation and on-line help, useability testing. Even though I was upfront about my skill level in these areas during my interview, the SMEs and Management now seem surprised that I don't have these skills. Where can I find the resources to learn about/get experience in these areas? I don't have the money to travel/take seminars, and I don't think my company would be willing to spend money to train me. If there are resources in my area (New Orleans, LA), I am not aware of them. I recently joined the STC Houston chapter, and I went to the STC regional conference at Dallas in February, but that only gives me a starting point. I've been doing internet searches and reading like crazy, but I feel I need hands-on experience.
Also, given the lack of opportunities in New Orleans to learn/use current and emerging technical communications methodologies, I'm wondering if I should sit tight here and try to learn all I can, or move try to on to a more up-to-date area. Even though I'm a good writer and have excellent research skills, I am daunted by the ads I see asking for years of experience in the areas mentionned above. + programming lanuages... All help/advice is greatly appreciated.
Charmaine J. Brandon
Technical Writer
if replying offlist, please use charmjb -at- hotmail -dot- com
