We started by discussing writing samples. Most writers have portfolios of work samples and tailor them depending on the job positions they are applying for, because employers often ask for them.
We also discussed the various tools and resources that LinkedIn provides, including information for technical writers that has helped at least one participant in his current job search. LinkedIn had disclosed that 10 percent of hires are predominantly the result of cold referrals and cold calls, and the rest are through either recruiters or networking with people already working at the company. Someone also noted that activity has been rising on LinkedIn in recent years; entry-level writing positions are more common and requirements have become less demanding.
The process of applying for jobs has changed, as the recruiter relationship has become key to securing a position. Company job application portals can be misleading, if they don’t provide clear information about how their hiring process works. Someone else has found Indeed.com beneficial in landing job interviews.
We then moved on to technical writing courses and programs. Employers often look for these on résumés, and the programs offer valuable information to both new and experienced writers. One writer said that he felt more confident after taking writing courses, as he gained insight into the technical writing sphere. Another had completed a fiction writing program and was currently in the process of writing a novel.
STC also offers courses, webinars, and a certificate program. One person had taken courses through both the British Columbia Institute of Technology and Vancouver Community College programs, and highlighted the flexibility of the programs, which don’t restrict students to a rigid time frame.
We then discussed data analysis. One person is currently completing a course on the subject, an interesting niche that fits well with her technical writing skills. The university program she is interested in is expensive, but as someone else pointed out, the payoff is quite high in later years, making it a valuable investment. Technical writing offers many options, and finding what you are interested in is the most important thing.
Finally, we touched on the cost of living and its impact on a job search, specifically with regard to locations that have higher real-estate prices. Technical writing offers excellent career opportunities, but, as in most industries, housing prices can be a deterrent when deciding which job to accept — unless you’re lucky enough to find remote work.
The Tech Comm Café provides networking opportunities, job leads, answers to work-related dilemmas, and a burst of professional energy to keep you motivated. We discuss technical writing tools and techniques, career planning, portfolios, and anything else related to working as a technical communicator.
We welcome anyone who’s interested in technical communication — contractor, in-house, student, long-time tech writer, STC member, non-member, career-changer, or recruiter. We hope to see you at the next meeting!
Next Meeting: ONLINE on Wednesday, March 20, 2024
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- If you plan to attend, RSVP by 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 20, to receive login instructions.
Date: Wednesday, March 20
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Location: Online via Microsoft Teams
Agenda
- Introductions. Take 60 seconds to introduce yourself, your background, current activities. A good chance to try out that new elevator speech.
- Announcements and job leads. If you know of an interesting event or a job opening, or you’re looking for work, share it with the group.
- Brainstorming Q&A. Ask about a work-related problem and discuss potential solutions.
- Speed networking. Make new contacts and discuss your professional backgrounds and goals.
Sucharita Ghosh is a student in the Professional Writing Honours program at York University in Toronto. In her free time, she likes to read stories, watch movies and TV shows, and visit new places.