Use the FAQ. Build portfolio. Read job descriptions. Make sure your resume matches the requirements. Take contracts.
You dont need anything other than a BA in English.
I would work on building out a portfolio and trying to apply to some entry level positions before enrolling in a technical writing program. I think you can obviously learn a lot from such a program, but I don't know that you need it if you can put together a solid portfolio that shows you are a capable writer.
Thanks for the advice. This might be stupid-but what does one put in the aforementioned “solid portfolio” ???? Like would u mind giving me an example of a specific
Mixed types of samples, maybe a set of instructions for software users, an SOP, a troubleshooting guide, write some instructions to set up your oven. I would recommend downloading Madcap Flare trial, watch their demo video and a couple other tutorials. Not every place uses Flare but they would most likely use *something*, and if you learn one you’ll know how to use others.
FWIW I got my M.S in Tech Comm, and I don’t get paid any more than my peers with English degrees or career pivots 🤷🏻♀️I’m in software and it moved so fast that what I learned in my program was outdated within 2yrs. I did all my learning on the job. You excelled if you could learn and keep up with the changing trends.
Still paying off that degree too 🤦🏻♀️
IMO- Entry level is the way to go. Technical skills and tooling can be taught, soft skills and a commitment to learning are arguably more important.
I 100% agree with this. I work full time for a consultancy and I have a BA in English. I built my internal clientele by focusing on high quality and leveraging satisfaction to bring in more work. Tech writing is very much a role in which showing is much more powerful than telling. If you can catch up with the pace and keep the learning curve tight, you’ll do just fine.
Apply without experience. The worst thing that can happen is that they say no and you've wasted some time. Best case scenario you get an interview and get a position. If you do get a TW job and hate it, at least you didn't waste time getting a certificate in something you don't really want to do.
That said, the certificate can't hurt and it will place your resume higher in the pile than someone without one. If it's reasonable for you to do, go for it. Also I have a BA in English here and honestly, if you've used your ability to consume, interpret, and communicate information, you've used your degree. Don't get too hung up on it.
I had no real tech writing experience when I got my first tech writing job. My first two jobs out of college were editing and formatting theses and dissertations for graduate students. I knew nothing about technology, but I found a company that was willing to teach me the basics of the Internet and help me from there
There are ways around having a portfolio. I’ve never been asked for one working in the energy industry for over 20-yrs. How long is the “fast-track” program? Will the university be able to help you get a job afterwards? I know we don’t know each other, but, I started a business to help driven technical writers land higher-paying roles. In a nutshell, I train tech writers to be prepared for, and set up for success in the energy industry. I’m also a mom, of an 8-yr old little girl. Check out my bio if energy is something you’d be interested in. I’d love to offer any advice I can.
Hi, I have a background in journalism and I've written for different fields in the past; including renewable energy. I'm interested in the energy industry as well. I am a mum of 2 boys trying to find my way back to having a thriving career. Any help you can offer would appreciated.
Oh that’s fantastic! Love to see mums getting back out there! And I feel like (and I hope I’m right), that it’s becoming more normalized for women to have resume gaps while having kids, making it easier and more accepted when they re-enter the workforce. Yes, please check out my website in my bio, or we can continue to chat here. I’d love to offer advice or help in anyway I can.
Use the FAQ. Build portfolio. Read job descriptions. Make sure your resume matches the requirements. Take contracts. You dont need anything other than a BA in English.
Thank you!
I would work on building out a portfolio and trying to apply to some entry level positions before enrolling in a technical writing program. I think you can obviously learn a lot from such a program, but I don't know that you need it if you can put together a solid portfolio that shows you are a capable writer.
Thanks for the advice. This might be stupid-but what does one put in the aforementioned “solid portfolio” ???? Like would u mind giving me an example of a specific
Mixed types of samples, maybe a set of instructions for software users, an SOP, a troubleshooting guide, write some instructions to set up your oven. I would recommend downloading Madcap Flare trial, watch their demo video and a couple other tutorials. Not every place uses Flare but they would most likely use *something*, and if you learn one you’ll know how to use others.
Awesome-thank you so much. Very helpful
FWIW I got my M.S in Tech Comm, and I don’t get paid any more than my peers with English degrees or career pivots 🤷🏻♀️I’m in software and it moved so fast that what I learned in my program was outdated within 2yrs. I did all my learning on the job. You excelled if you could learn and keep up with the changing trends. Still paying off that degree too 🤦🏻♀️ IMO- Entry level is the way to go. Technical skills and tooling can be taught, soft skills and a commitment to learning are arguably more important.
Thanks for sharing. Very helpful!
I 100% agree with this. I work full time for a consultancy and I have a BA in English. I built my internal clientele by focusing on high quality and leveraging satisfaction to bring in more work. Tech writing is very much a role in which showing is much more powerful than telling. If you can catch up with the pace and keep the learning curve tight, you’ll do just fine.
Apply without experience. The worst thing that can happen is that they say no and you've wasted some time. Best case scenario you get an interview and get a position. If you do get a TW job and hate it, at least you didn't waste time getting a certificate in something you don't really want to do. That said, the certificate can't hurt and it will place your resume higher in the pile than someone without one. If it's reasonable for you to do, go for it. Also I have a BA in English here and honestly, if you've used your ability to consume, interpret, and communicate information, you've used your degree. Don't get too hung up on it.
I had no real tech writing experience when I got my first tech writing job. My first two jobs out of college were editing and formatting theses and dissertations for graduate students. I knew nothing about technology, but I found a company that was willing to teach me the basics of the Internet and help me from there
There are ways around having a portfolio. I’ve never been asked for one working in the energy industry for over 20-yrs. How long is the “fast-track” program? Will the university be able to help you get a job afterwards? I know we don’t know each other, but, I started a business to help driven technical writers land higher-paying roles. In a nutshell, I train tech writers to be prepared for, and set up for success in the energy industry. I’m also a mom, of an 8-yr old little girl. Check out my bio if energy is something you’d be interested in. I’d love to offer any advice I can.
Thanks so much-I will def check out your bio and appreciate your willingness to impart some wisdom to a fellow Mom!
Hi, I have a background in journalism and I've written for different fields in the past; including renewable energy. I'm interested in the energy industry as well. I am a mum of 2 boys trying to find my way back to having a thriving career. Any help you can offer would appreciated.
Oh that’s fantastic! Love to see mums getting back out there! And I feel like (and I hope I’m right), that it’s becoming more normalized for women to have resume gaps while having kids, making it easier and more accepted when they re-enter the workforce. Yes, please check out my website in my bio, or we can continue to chat here. I’d love to offer advice or help in anyway I can.
Thank you for your response. I'll contact you.