On 11/17/06, Craig Cardimon <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > I've just begun a new career in the space of about > three days. I was working as a web/database developer > with about 12 years experience. > > By way of background, I've always had a knack for > writing, but did it in an "under the radar" sort of > way. I have a BS in biology, a Certificate in > Technical Writing, and an MA in English. > > On Tuesday, I had the interview. On Wednesday, I had > an offer by phone. On Thursday, I received > confirmation via email. I start on Monday, December > 4th. > > My interview was very open-ended. No true specifics. > Lots of generalities. There are many things to do and > many people to meet (especially the first day and > week). > > Any advice on how to survive and thrive? > > -- Craig Cardimon
When I started as a tech writer, I had more chutzpah than training, more unhoned talent than sense, and more than my fair share of favorable breaks, any of which might have helped undo me instead of helping to advance me in this career. That was five years ago. Since then, I've survived where others have fallen and flourished where others have languished. I dare not think about any of this too long lest I realize what a remarkable series of events conspired to thrust me into this career. My story is here: http://phywriter.com/how-i-became-a-tech-writer-and-other-stories/ Off-hand, the suggestions that come to my mind are pretty basic. * You've already taken the first and best step by finding lists / forums / societies that pertain to your field of interest. When I first got into tech writing / help authoring, I joined a bunch of lists and created an e-mail identity via an online e-mail client (Gmail works especially well for this - I dump all my career e-mail into folders and catch up as I have time. I can go back and quickly search for answers to specific questions at a moment's notice ) * Network. I've met countless really talented, experienced, knowledgeable people on the various lists, and the people who have patiently mentored me, especially in the first few years, reads like a 'who's who' of industry leaders. * Off-topic lists. Consider joining at least one off-topic list. As I sit and think about the things that have provided the best bang-for-the-buck, I'd have to say that getting to know people socially has helped me immeasurably professionally. It wasn't something that I set out to do, but in retrospect, I can see that this has been a huge advantage for me. People got to know me, to see the kind of character I have or don't, and when I had a work-related question, they were that much more willing to help answer the question, and in perhaps greater detail than they might otherwise. * Sharpen the saw: I personally take a full hour lunch. As I am not classicly trained, and have had to learn pretty much everything I know on my own time and initiative, I spend 30 mins reading up on things to 'sharpen the saw' and another 30 mins reading for pleasure. This past year, I've read 20 reference books related to my craft and taught myself RoboHelp X5 and Adobe InDesign CS2. I'm planning on working my way through the other CS2 apps during 2007. Those are the suggestions that come to my mind. I trust others will chime in as well. Best wishes for a successful and fulfilling career, and welcome. -- John Cook Technical Writer / Help Author john dot cook at gmail dot com _______________________________________________ Are you a Help Authoring Trainer or Consultant? Let clients find you at www.HAT.Matrix.com, the searchable HAT database based on Char James-Tanny's HAT Comparison Matrix. Contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] for details. Interested in Interactive 3D Documentation? Get the scoop at http://www.doc-u-motion.com -- your 3D documentation community. _______________________________________________ Technical Communication Professionals To post a message to the list, send an email to [email protected] To subscribe or unsubscribe via the World Wide Web, visit http://techcommpros.com/mailman/listinfo/tcp_techcommpros.com or, via email, send a blank message [EMAIL PROTECTED] Visit the TCP site at http://www.techcommpros.com To find out more about the list, including archives and your account options, visit http://techcommpros.com/mailman/listinfo/tcp_techcommpros.com If you need assistance with the list, write to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
