Getting started into Technical writing
Now I am assuming you are a graduate and have the basic idea of what is technical writing and how it is different from other genres of writing. Maybe gone through formal training of Information Developers Foundation.
I have noticed this type of queries from a newbie’s on any form of technical writing. So sharing some tips, old wisdom but a new chapter :-).
I will also recommend you to read this technical writer guide before going ahead.
Now it is time to “MARKET” your skills, for that you will need many tools like a resume, sample of your work, cover letter, feature article (if any), blog, letter of recommendation etc.
Good Resume
As a technical writer, it is expected for you to submit an error-free professional resume. Make sure your resume is free of grammatical errors, spelling mistakes or typo errors.
If you cannot write a good resume how can you write a good technical document? I normally ask the technical writer during the interview “Can I assume your CV as your work sample” and then give it back to edit it. In hardly ten minutes I can judge many different qualities of aspirants.
- Prepare an error-free CV.
- Online CV should be the incorrect format.
- Do not name as resume.doc. The standard convention is to use your first initial, last name and the file extension.
- Do not assume the employer will have your resume; carry print copies with you.
Portfolio (Sample of Work)
Many employers ask to submit your portfolio. Never include any work in your folio which is copyright protected or property of any organization, even if it is created by you.
Try to showcase all your skills in a very concise but very smart way in your portfolio. Make an online as well as print copy. Get your folio edited by expert even if you are expert itself.
Learn 5 best ways to provide writing samples
Make a LinkedIn profile
A Linkedin profile adds credibility to your profile. Update it regularly to make yourself visible. It is also one of the best ways to connect with your peers and grow your network. You can also use it for job search and it also helps you to stand in the eyes of employers. As Linkedin profile has your detailed credentials it is more likely to get you relevant opportunities. It also helps you to interact with a large pool of people from the same domain.
Premium subscription of job portals
Don’t be the part of a huge recruitment funnel. Be filtered to increase your chance to get an interview call. A premium subscription of any job portal will help you to do that. You will get more relevant calls for a job. They provide you with resume templates, keep your profile on top to be more visualized and send you regular alerts so that you never miss any opportunity.
Do not forget to visit our job board regularly.
Network like a CEO
Have you ever wondered how a CEO handle their business? A big empire is handled by a single person, it is only because of the huge network and connections they have. A bigger network gives you virtual hands to complete your task with more ease. A number of references come your way through networks, so work towards networking.
Attend the seminars organized by different forums, webinars, local meetups, events like Information Developers conclave, be a part of it. Be vocal to show your presence. Show your skills where needed.
Do not stop to network with your tribes even you get a job. Networking is a long-term effort. Consider helping people before asking for help.
Contribute in the open source document
To start as a fresher it becomes tough to show a sample of your work as the proof of your dexterity as a technical writer. Contributing in an open source document helps you compile a good number of sample to showcase it to your employer. A good example of the open source document is Git and Github. To know more see the video of the content charcha webinar by Amruta Ranade.
Learn About Industry trends
You should be aware of new trends in the industries. There are many ways to that, google search is good but apart from that join groups on many social networking sites like Facebook, LinkedIn etc, read blogs and comment, join technical writing forums. You can find many resources on this blog.
Bookmark this blog and reading a post daily should be your habit.
Learning is a continuous process.
This is a very old wisdom and relevant for tech writing also. Yes, if you are not a dynamic learner you will not enjoy the journey of information development. It is expected from technical writer to understand the application quickly and develop information on it. If you work with contractors many days you may have to work on multiple projects.
Enhance your communication, interpersonal and interviewing skills it will help you to gather information about the project.
Consider relocation
For your first job, be ready to relocate. A city with more opportunity will help you. If you are staying at a remote location, try to move for better opportunities. We all are connected to our hometown but for growth, if needed do not hesitate to do that.
Opportunity in technical writing in Bangalore is more than Lucknow. Consider relocating to Bangalore, Pune, Hyderabad or Delhi NCR for the better job opportunity as a technical writer.
There are many things that can be covered, but currently, I am able to gather this much only I will keep on updating this.
Do not forget to master Microsoft Manual of style.
Conclusion
We all know to get the first job is always challenging but smart work always win.
Hopefully, the above pointers will help you to get into your dream job. If you want feedback on your resume or just want to say hi. Call me Now!
Best of Luck!
Rahul Karn
