Technical Writing

Technical writing is one of those important yet near-invisible activities. And it's been largely ignored. Today is essential to have some skills in this area, especially if you want to focus on Web content writing. It's cool to be a technical writer. Not only does your title sound impressive, the pay's also good. So if you're looking to boost your income, then you could seriously consider a foray into this field. A plus point is that you can draw upon your already existing knowledge and resources for a dramatic increase in income.

If you're still wondering how to try your hand at this, then consider this. If you're a consultant or a contractor, then you must be providing answers to your clients' queries. You can use the same skills to share your knowledge with a wider audience in a much more organized manner. Let's discuss what technical writing is or isn't, what are the necessary skills and how you can get your foot in the door of the publishing world as a technical writer.

Technical writing is what it isn't. Every technical writer doesn't necessarily need a degree in literature. Quite the reverse. A lot depends on your inherent capacity, common sense and attitude. The rules of the game have changed. Degrees do count, but, they don't necessarily ensure productivity. Experience shows that there are roughly three types of people currently working as technical writers in the industry. They are either those who possess the ability to write but have little technical background.; those who possess a technical background but have little writing experience; those who possess neither but a willingness to learn and loads of attitude.

The market is tight, but every company needs some kind of documentation. A look into the kind of technical writers employed by companies today shows that only a handful of technical writers have degrees and diplomas in English or Journalism. This is an indicator that companies have relaxed their standards for these positions because they need people with at least some standard qualifications.

Lay your hands on some samples from the technical writing market. That's the simplest way to get an idea of the market. Mid-career practitioners can also take a look at some documents in your current workplace. Consider some technical stuff that comes in handy daily. Is it interesting enough? Most often than not, you'll find majority of the documents redundant and badly written.

Let's face it. The standard feel of technical writing today is depressingly dead. The market is crying out for some vigour and life. The upside however, of this sad scenario is that you can with a little effort make it to the top in this field. Rushing-to-market is a commonplace mentality that many companies are giving into. Most of them have little or no standardized documentation. And there are times when engineers and chartered accountants find themselves writing reports and documents that can best be described as technical writing. If this sounds familiar and holds true for you, then why not branch out and use your existing resources to bring forth a second income?

The 'write' skill set includes technical knowledge (most mid-career charge practitioners will already have some of that .) Loads of self-motivation to get you past the bad times. A good writing ability that permits you to organize your thoughts and project them in a clear, concise, readable manner. And good human-relations skills that are needed when you have to grovel to get a job.

It's also a common (but fundamentally incorrect) belief that IT people aren't human. So the last skill may be a little difficult. Your reputation, whether good or bad usually outlives you. Getting along with people doesn't guarantee you work, but not getting along can, and will cost you work.

Microsoft Word and Notepad are the prevalent applications used to create company documents today. For creating help files for applications, another application, RoboHelp, is used. Your marketability as a technical writer is greatly enhanced, if you're proficient in any or all of these programs. Keep track of all the documentation that you have yourself produced. These can be computer manuals, help files, in-house documentation, requests for quotes, or procedural documents. Gather as many copies as possible of these kinds of assignments that you undertook and create a portfolio to show prospective employers.

The next step is to spruce up your resume in such a manner that already shows your technical expertise. Then add the writing that you've done to complement your technical projects. The combination of your technical accomplishments and your writing skills makes you a suitable candidate for clients with technical writing needs.

Technical writing most often can be conducted on a freelance basis through tele commuting or online. That's why it's a good second income. You can start by looking for opportunities with your current employer. Check out if they already have an in-house person for creation of documentation. Employment agencies are also a great source of information about freelance work. Otherwise search the Net and use your own network of contacts to generate leads. Never be too shy to ask. It's often the best way to set the ball rolling.

Don't get disheartened if you don't succeed initially. Unlike other IT vocations, this doesn't need you to pass exams or possess certificates. There's not much out-of-pocket expense. You either have all the resources or you can acquire them on your own. A few assignments can easily increase your present income by 25 to 50 percent or more. Freshers must remember that everything takes time and even if you don't have all the required skills, as long as you're willing to learn on your own or with a little guidance, you can still make it. One last word. It helps to remember that every IT consultant won't succeed as a technical writer, but, ambition and tenacity are the keys to success in an industry where you can make a lot of money.

http://techwriting.about.com/careers/techwriting/cs/general1/index.htm?terms=Technical+Writing+Aids
http://www.ceweekly.wa.com/
http://www.ff.com/
http://www.stc.org/
http://www.techwritingmkt.com/

Amrita Ghosh
[email protected]

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