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.
Subject:Re: Breaking into the business From:Debbie Warren <dwarren -at- DTECHS -dot- COM> Date:Fri, 12 Feb 1999 13:31:26 -0600
Kevin
Why do you want to teach? I bet you enjoy sharing your knowledge. If that's
the case, technical writing may be the perfect temporary or part-time job
for you.
You ask for advice on computer training. I recommend reading books on
desktop publishing software. For example, a PageMaker user's guide can teach
you the software without ever actually using it. I taught myself how to use
RoboHelp to create on-line help files in about 2 days.
I've never read Microsoft's Style Guide. Although, I do write my user's
guide the same way.
Please, don't take this the wrong way. I can't help thinking that you are
taking a job that is below your skills. If I knew chemistry, I would try to
work for a pharmaceutical company. -- Now, this comes from a person who
dreams about owning a dog facility (swimming, deli shop for dogs and people,
grooming, etc... ) everyday. But I don't have the slightest idea about how
to realize my dream.