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How does the plan of interviewing candidates work in a market that is saturated with "technical writers" who really aren't qualified for the job, but can write up a resume, produce samples (possibly borrowed), and come up with references, so the TWs look qualified? If you are hit with 50 or so resumes from "qualified" candidates, how do you determine who to call for a phone interview and later bring in for an in-person interview? Certification can help slim the numbers in large markets.
Lauren
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From: techwr-l-bounces+lt34=csus -dot- edu -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com on behalf of Gene Kim-Eng
Sent: Thu 9/27/2007 10:21 AM
To: Dori Green; techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
Subject: Re: Technical Writing Certifications
I employ an "old Jedi techpubs manager trick." I talk to
candidates about their past experience, projects,
methodologies, etc., look at their work samples and ask
them questions about them, then talk to their previous
managers and/or clients. It's admittedly unscientific,
but I guess the Force must be with me, because in 15
years I haven't made any hiring choices I later regretted.
What *I* really need is some way to test prospective
*employers.*
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