In my ten-year career as a technical writer, I've always been able to say I was never laid off--that is, until last Friday. The company I have been working at for nearly nine years eliminated all three of the technical writers' positions, due to a company-wide reduction following a change in ownership.
I've been wanting to start my own business doing interactive 3D documentation (software reseller, training, tech support, and consulting), so it's really quite perfect. Beginning next year, I will be moving frequently as my husband finishes his bachelor's degree, pursues an M.Divdegree, does an internship, works for a few years, and then goes back for his doctorate, so having my own home-based business will be better than getting a new job every 1-3 years. With the elimination of my job, I will be paid through May 15th, and then will receive a lump sum payment for 18 weeks of severence pay. They will continue my health insurance coverage for six months at no cost. Not a bad situation, all things considered. I realize I will have to talk to officials and professionals in some areas, but there are still things I'd like to hear about from people who've "been there" (and of course, sympathy and encouragement are always welcome, too... even though this is a great opportunity, it's still an emotional experience): * I received severance; can I also get unemployment? Now, or after the18 weeks? * What resources do you know of for starting a business, particularly a woman-owned business? * Have you ever done a press release to announce a new business or make some other announcement? * Corporation, LLC, or other business setup? * Other things I haven't even thought of, yet? Thanks everyone! Lisa G. ______________________________________________ Author Help files and create printed documentation with Doc-To-Help. New release adds Team Authoring Support, enhanced Web-based help technology and PDF output. Learn more at www.doctohelp.com/tcp. DOCUMENTATION & TRAINING WEST 07: THE USER EXPERIENCE April 18-21, 2007 ~ Vancouver BC ~ Marriott Pinnacle ~ free city tour 40+ sessions * free workshops * free iPod offer * www.doctrain.com _______________________________________________ Technical Communication Professionals Post a message to the list: email [EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, unsubscribe, archives, account options, list info: http://techcommpros.com/mailman/listinfo/tcp_techcommpros.com Subscribe (email): send a blank message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Unsubscribe (email): send a blank message to [EMAIL PROTECTED] Need help? Contact [EMAIL PROTECTED] Get the TCP whole experience! http://www.techcommpros.com
