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Subject:Re: Finding Local Tech Writing Job... From:rushsm -at- comcast -dot- net To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com> Date:Tue, 02 Dec 2003 02:29:39 +0000
Some things to try, but not knowing the area, I'm not sure how successful they'll be.
First thing is to not get bound to looking for jobs with "writer" in the title. Also look for words such as editor, documentation, information, manuals, etc. If you're flexible, look for training, instruction, proofreading, etc. Far as I can tell, different industries use their own pet names, and they change.
Second thing is to check for any agencies covering the area. May give you a way in.
Third thing is cold calling. Sounds like a perfect situation for the "informational interview"--where you try to set up interviews with managers to gather information about the company and their industry. Maybe there's a back door all tech writers go through or something. (Note: info interviews are *not* stealth maneuvers to get an unoffered job interview. Need to be honest about what you're doing--research on the area and the industry(ies). The fact that you're new to the area (correct?) makes it reasonable that you're doing research.)
Fourth thing. Any industry similar to the one you just left, or one you'd particularly like to work in? Maybe look for another job in the same area, which give you an in.
Good luck!
--
Sella Rush
Senior Technical Writer
Seattle, WA
rushsm -at- comcast -dot- net
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