Typically candidates look for jobs as writers either in companies that pay higher or (on the contrary and in desparation) any writing job in any company. However, if you are serious of making it as a writer, you should look at different factors before taking up your first job.

The ideal first job:

• Plays a crucial role in shaping careers
• Lets you put in practice in a real environment whatever you may have learnt till date
• Makes you learn the right things the right way
• Is your springboard to what you will be years later

Therefore, look for these factors when you apply for a job:

• Would you be trained or mentored by experienced writers?
• Does the company have a team of writers, editors and such staff?
• Is this a company where you can learn?
• What are the other avenues available in case you are not comfortable with a particular assignment?
• What does the company’s documentation group actually produce?
• Does the company allow you to read books on writing and provide memberships to forums and societies?

Usually, in smaller companies you may do all aspects of work, whereas in bigger companies you may learn the processes while doing only a task or two. But this is not a rule. Ideally you should look at learning during the start of your career.

There are a number of writers across the world…some of them are technical writers. Software technology has ensured that many more writers blossom even from places where English is not the native language and make a successful career in technical writing. However, not all make good writers due to a variety of factors. Of late there have been alarming tendencies:

• Companies need more people and compromise on quality
• People are driven by the craze to join software companies at any cost
• Candidates underestimate the needs of writing as a career

Thus, some people without proper writing skills join organizations and find it difficult to make the grade. A few among these use every tactic possible to prosper in their careers:

• Behaving aggresively
• Using marketing pitch
• Networking and groupism
• Pulling strings to “manage” rather than write
• Reinventing themselves to work only on certain aspects

Some do learn while a few fall by the wayside. However, what is tragic is that a few using their contacts or other devious means, make life miserable for others. Yet, not everything is dismal — there are many writers who are excellent in their work. This blog caters to such writers who have shown passion for technical writing and have worked hard to be writers. These writers would share real tips and stories based on actual experiences rather than from some books or websites.

In addition, this blog provides an avenue for these writers to interact with other writers. Note that this blog does not ignore writers who want to improve their skills. In fact, this blog hopes to be a sort of practice area for writers honing their writing skills. Of course, only invited writers can contribute to this blog; if you are keen to write, then send us an e-mail and we will respond appropriately.

This blog does not want to crib or lament or point fingers at anyone in particular but is a genuine, non-profit, and non-marketing-oriented blog for those with a real passion for technical writing. We also do not promise any tutoring or payment for writing.

Welcome all!