Re: What constitutes a senior tech writer and how to get there?

[Sheldon Kohn <Sheldon -dot- Kohn -at- GRIZZARD -dot- COM>]

This is an interesting thread to me.

I once worked as "Director of Documentation." The job was just terrible.
They needed to install a revolving door at the Employee's Entrance to
handle the flood of people quitting. As a "Director of Documentation," I
had less authority and influence than a lot of staff writers. Although I
do legitimately have the title on my resume now, it is not worth what I
paid to get it.

On the other hand, one of the best jobs I had was as a "Senior
Operational Consultant." In this job, I worked as the technical writer
on an internet e-commerce system, doing everything from creating online
help to developing APIs. I learned an incredible amount while the
contract lasted.

The point for me is that titles are largely irrelevant in defining job
duties and opportunities to learn.

Anon seem frustrated by the lack of opportunity to grow professionally.
It is always difficult to find a mentor, and those of us who were lucky
enough to have a mentor at a critical point in our careers are eternally
grateful to that person. In my case, I brought enthusiasm for writing
and skill with English grammar. My mentor provided interesting
assignments, insight into the realities of the workplace, and a real
commitment to helping me develop as a professional. I remain fiercely
loyal towards him. In turn, I have worked as a mentor with several
junior people over the years, and each one went on to bigger and better
things. It is a role that I enjoy tremendously.

I do not think that such mentoring relationships can be predicted, or
forced. They happen or they do not. I have the impression that mentoring
happens less these days than it used to, and I wonder if that is also
other people's experience. Also, some of my female colleagues have told
me that men are unwilling to mentor them. That has not been my
experience, but I wonder what you all think.

I think that Anon has some soul-searching to do. Three years to stay in
such a limited position seems excessive. No one else is going to take
care of you.

It is good that you asked these questions before the weekend. Take time
to consider all the responses and make a plan that works for you.

Regards,

Sheldon Kohn
Hired Gun


 From ??? -at- ??? Sun Jan 00 00:00:00 0000=