Re: real tech writers? RE: Out-of-Work Tech Writers and SwitchingCareers

[Janet Murphy <janet -at- fuse -dot- net>]

Connie,
I apologize if I sound like a degree snob. I'm not. But, I enjoy the field so much that I wanted a degree in it. I wanted to
study w/professionals known in the field. I want to be an expert AND have the credentials to back up my skills.

Further, I feel like the effort needed to pursue the degree helps legitimize me in the eyes of others.  Do the additional
letters help when I'm looking for a position? You better believe it.  Does that sound harsh? Maybe, but that's life in the
big city around here.

Like I said in my post -- I didn't know what I didn't know until I went back for more training.  That's how I keep up w/the
profession.  Well, that and reading this list.

janet


"Giordano, Connie" wrote:

> Janet,
>
> I must respectfully disagree...I do not have a tech writing degree... and I
> really don't want one. I have a honors in communications degree that's 20
> years old... but I didn't start in technical communications, I started in
> that evil profession of marketing.  I gained respect by producing useful
> stuff for people who needed it.
>
> Degrees do not make real tech writers... hard work, ability and experience
> do.  Plus, as David's wonderful assessment of people states, you have to
> just love to communicate.
>
> I applaud your decision to return to school, but it's not one everyone needs
> to make. I find the challenge of keeping up with the profession more than
> satisfactory without another set of initials behind my name.
>
> MTC
> Connie P. Giordano
> Senior Technical Writer
> Advisor Technology Services
> A Fidelity Investments Company
> 704-330-2069 (w)
> 704-330-2350 (f)
> 704-957-8450 (c)
> connie -dot- giordano -at- fmr -dot- com <mailto:connie -dot- giordano -at- fmr -dot- com>



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