So you want to be a technical writer? Wonderful! We are always in need of talented writers who can put their technical know-how to use for translating complex ideas into easy-to-follow text that non-specialists can understand and get value from.
While it’s certainly possible to find a technical writing job that doesn’t require previous experience, the vast majority of technical writing roles do. Even in 2018, when there’s such a large pool of candidates, job-hunting can be tricky. You’re competing for attention with thousands of other people looking for work, so you need to tailor your application to stand out. Luckily for you, we’re here to help. Here are some useful tips on how to break into technical writing and make your resume pop!
Demonstrate Your Value
You wouldn’t typically go into a car dealership and ask about price. You would instead look for other ways to value the vehicle, such as inspecting it for quality or asking about any special offers. The same goes for applying for a job as a technical writer. You should never apply for a job without first demonstrating your value. This doesn’t mean you have to land a five-star review to prove you’re worthy, but it does mean you should look for ways to highlight your skills and experience.
For example, if you’re applying for a position at a software company that develops tools for programmers, instead of just sending your resume, you could include a link to your GitHub profile. That way, the hiring manager can get a sense of what tools you use and how you used them. If you’re applying for a position at a web development company, you could include links to sites you’ve built or articles you’ve written. All these things establish your value as a candidate.
Know The Industry You’re Applying For
Speaking of value, you should never apply for a job you’re not equipped to do. No one is an expert in every subject, and you should never assume you know more than the people who wrote the job posting. Before you start applying for jobs, try to find out what knowledge and experience they’re looking for in order to ensure you have the right skills to qualify for the position. This is especially important if you’re applying for a position at a lower level. For example, if the posting asks for a junior developer, you should research and find out what they want and need in a candidate.
If you think you’re qualified for the job, you should also research the company and the role. Learn as much as you can about what they do and how they do it. Find out any specific software tools or programs they use.
Follow The Instructions Carefully
When applying for a job, it’s essential to follow the instructions carefully. Most employers will provide detailed information about what they’re looking for in a candidate. Before you start applying for jobs, take the time to read through this information carefully. This will help you tailor your application to stand out. If you don’t have the time, ask a friend or family member to help you through the process. They will be able to help guide you through the application instructions and tell you what you’re supposed to include in your application.
Use A Resume For Application Purposes Only
Once you’ve gotten the hang of using a resume for job applications, you may want to use it for future job interviews as well. Many employers don’t like to see new candidates submitting applications without one. They think it shows a lack of professionalism.
You don’t need to use the same resume for every application you make. It’s perfectly acceptable to have multiple resumes for multiple positions. Just make sure you tailor each one for the specific role you’re applying for. If you’ve written a resume for a specific role, make sure you update it with any relevant experience from other roles. This will make you stand out as a more professional candidate.
Follow Up
After you’ve applied for a job, it’s important to follow up. Not only will a hiring manager be more inclined to consider your application if you’ve shown you’re interested in the position, but it also shows you’re a diligent and determined candidate. When sending your resume, don’t just send it out into the ether. Follow up with a quick email to let the employer know you’ve applied for the job and include a link to your resume.
Even though you may have received a request for information, it doesn’t mean the employer will automatically consider you for the position. If you don’t follow up with a phone call or an email, it could cause you to lose out on a job you’re actually capable of doing.
Get References
It’s always a good idea to have references. Even if you’ve never done any kind of work for this particular company, it’s still a sign of respect to give them the opportunity to learn more about you. When applying for a job, you should always put your references on your resume. Make sure you notify your current employers about your candidacy and include them on your resume as well. This will give the potential employer the opportunity to vouch for your skills. It also shows you’re a team player who is willing to contribute and participate in the growth of the company.
As you’re applying for jobs, it’s not always easy to get an accurate sense of what other companies are paying for similar positions. To determine how much you should be seeking as wages, it is advisable to contact other tech writers in your area or with your specific role. Through networking, you can get an idea of what your local community is paying and what others in your line of work are earning. This can help you determine what you should be asking for in terms of wages.