RE: Definition of Technical Writer

["Joe Malin" <jmalin -at- tuvox -dot- com>]

Dear Ronald,

I think you should set your minimum and preferred qualifications instead
of relying on a definition of "technical writer".

As I see it, your minimum qualifications define who you will not
consider. If someone applies anyway, you are justified in turning them
down without reviewing their resume.

Your preferred qualifications help you choose between candidates. They
also help communicate what the position really is, so people can
self-select.

I also think you should put together the key attributes you are looking
for, so that all your interviewers can evaluate candidates on the same
criteria.

Here's what I think the minimum qualifications are for a senior
technical writer:
* 3-5 years experience as a technical writer in a related field
* demonstrated ability to schedule projects and meet the schedules
* demonstrated ability to organize material at the "book" level
* demonstrated ability to write clearly and concisely
* requires little or no direct supervision
* demonstrated ability to direct lower-level technical writers, or
ability to collaborate with
  writers or other technical professionals

Preferred qualifications
* degree or certificate in technical writing
* field-related background (degree in the field area)
* Demonstrated ability to use the writing tools you use, or similar ones

Attributes to look for:
* bias towards action
* ability to work in a team
* positive attitude
* reliability
* integrity
* ability to think analytically
* problem-solver

Joe

Joe Malin
Technical Writer
(408)625-1623
jmalin -at- tuvox -dot- com 
www.tuvox.com
The views expressed in this document are those of the sender, and do not
necessarily reflect those of TuVox, Inc.	
-----Original Message-----
From: techwr-l-bounces+jmalin=tuvox -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
[mailto:techwr-l-bounces+jmalin=tuvox -dot- com -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf
Of Ronald Schwarz
Sent: Wednesday, September 27, 2006 10:43 AM
To: techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: Definition of Technical Writer

I am attempting to recruit a "senior" technical writer. I am finding
people who respond to my job announcements who have accomplished all
sorts of things and claim to be technical writers so that they can be
hired by my company. 
 
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