TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
JIMCHEVAL wrote:
>
> Have you tried marketing yourself in the sense of cold calling?
>
> Assemble lists of anybody who could possibly need technical writing
> (manufacturers, software companies, some banks, ad agencies with technical
> clients, theme parks or anyplace else that needs equipment explained), call
> them up and say "I'd like to talk to whomever does your documentation. I'm a
> technical writer and I'd like to offer my services." Don't be pushy or
> -unless encouraged - chatty, just say what you got, see what they need.
>
>If I were cold calling, I'd be more specific about whom to speak with. Otherwise, you might find yourself talking to technical writers who may not feel so charitable, particularly if they feel threatened that you're angling for their job. Why not play it safe and ask to speak to the person in charge of documentation? Documentation directors, managers, and supervisors are the omniscient ones who get paid to plan and track their department's documentation requirements, documentation schedules, workload, staffing and contractor needs, budgets, headcounts, and organizational changes. So, as I see it, your best bet is to get the scoop directly from them.
__________________________________________
Leslie Bythewood
(Need help with an online help project in DC, MD, or VA? Contact me!)
