Re: How we introduce our profession to others . . .

["Robert L. Stallard \(News Lists\)" <rlslists -at- ev1 -dot- net>]

Greetings Colleagues:

This may be a bit profound for the typical layperson:

In part, a technical writer authors documents that provide information and
knowledge for learning, applying, and safely performing actions that:
  - make products, services, and processes happen;
  - assist people in using those products and services;
  - assure quality; etc.
Documentation is an integral part of a business system.

Kristen wrote:

> I think people who understand the importance of
> documentation are willing to pay what writes are
> worth. It is the people who think anybody could
> do the job that try to pay as little as possible.
> We all know that an effective manual can actually
> cut costs.  Explaining these values to someone that is
> paying the bill is another issue.


I agree with Kristen.  Personally, this is why I am currently seeking a new
employer.  Someday I hope to find one who values the contribution of
documentation to products and processes.  To this purpose, I state in my
cover letters that I truly believe that documentation is an integral part of
a company's products, services, and knowledge.  The manner in which we
present information in our documents reflects the respect we have for our
audience and the value we place on our products and work.  Accordingly, I
author my deliverables with customer focus, high quality standards, pride of
workmanship, and uncompromising integrity.

By stating this, I hope to spark interest only in companies that see the
strategic importance of tech writing.  Only these companies could have a
culture that fosters the same passion towards technical writing that I have.
Unfortunately, I have not found that employer yet.  Nonetheless, I will keep
searching.

Robert L. Stallard
Technical Writer
Houston, Texas, USA



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