By: Connor Elfrink
Florida Chapter, STC
Hi all! I’m Connor – current textbook editor and new member of the STC Florida Chapter. The January meeting featured a panel of young professionals who answered questions about their experience in the technical communications field. As a young professional myself, I found their tips super helpful – here are some of my favorites!
- Lessons you’d pass on to new tech writers:
- Learn an additional skill (coding / HTML / etc).
BUT… - Don’t stress if you haven’t mastered all skills. Mastery of one skill/software is evidence to employers you can master another
- Make a portfolio as you work:
- Keep track of/file your work as you go (for performance reviews, etc.). Doing this retroactively can be a daunting task!
- Take 30 minutes each month to review/recap what you’ve done.
- Keep copies of everything!
- Value of a portfolio:
- Helps you to organize/prioritize what you value most about your work.
- How to build a larger portfolio? (blogging!). Even if it’s writing about a random topic of interest, blogging shows your ability/commitment to writing.
- Does your employer support STC?
- “They love it!”
- Companies like when current employees are STC members. For one reason, this connects. employers to a larger pool of candidates to fill future job openings.
5. Recommendations for job search strategies/interviews?
- Join STC! Networking helps push your resume through.
- Be confident! Focus on / sell the skills you do have.
- Apply for everything! Once you’re in the company, new positions can open up.
- Research the company beforehand/mention specifics at the interview.