This month we welcomed people from multiple countries and time zones. The group was a mixture of new and familiar faces, experienced and new writers, and people whose experience included journalism, computer science, physics, and instructional design, among other things.
This variety of backgrounds led to a discussion of career transitions and transferable skills. Some writers want to build on their subject-matter expertise, others prefer to use the general skills they’ve acquired in their first or second degree but broaden their horizons to focus on technical writing in new areas. One person described how she graduated with a journalism degree and then moved into technical writing, using her skills in research, interviewing, fact-checking, writing for diverse audiences, and meeting deadlines. In a few years she was able to gain experience in both large multinational corporations and small startups. Another had a Masters degree in science and was exploring ways to move into technical writing, though not necessarily in a science-related field.
We agreed that it’s important to work in a variety of jobs when you’re starting out, to see what type of work you prefer. Do you want a contract or permanent position? Large or small company? On-site or remote? What subject area? Technical writing offers such variety that you can explore the field, choose your niche, and, with luck and some effort, find work that you love.
We also discussed the importance of networking to find a community of fellow writers where one can “talk shop” with people in the same field, while making connections that can lead to educational opportunities and possible work. STC Canada West Coast recently hosted a webinar on job hunting tips. A free recording of the presentation is available on request.
Another webinar in August will explore the timely topic of artificial intelligence and how it’s transforming the field of technical communication.
One person asked how people found out about STC, and whether they consider it valuable. We agreed that the STC can be a useful starting point for networking and learning, but that people are also using social media and other groups to connect. Volunteering with any of them can be a good way to demonstrate your skills or learn new ones and to expand your network.
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, August 21, 2024
- Subscribe to receive email announcements of future meetings.
- If you plan to attend, RSVP by 4 p.m. Wednesday, August 21, to receive login instructions.
Date: Wednesday, August 21
Time: 7:00-8:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Location: Online via Zoom
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.
Heather Sommerville is a senior technical writer and editor with over 20 years of experience delivering clear, concise writing for business and technical audiences. She is an STC Associate Fellow and has served in many volunteer positions with the STC Canada West Coast chapter.