Don't Lose It...Use It!

by Diane Russell, Quill Contributor

Seriously, it happens. You learn a new language but have no opportunity to practice it. Months later, you're struggling to recall those words you once knew so well. Try going back to a sport that you haven't played for years—your abilities will be noticeably diminished. 

Wait, does this mean that the same thing could happen to your skills as a technical communicator? It's a definite possibility. Speaking from personal experience, if asked to write an essay today, I could certainly draw upon previous knowledge to produce a reasonable effort. Would it be as good as those written while enrolled at WLU? Somehow, I doubt it. When essay-writing is part and parcel of every course taken, it somehow becomes a natural thing to do. Abandon it for a year and you may notice that your skills need some sharpening.

Careers become interrupted for a variety of reasons. Suppose you find yourself unemployed, or in a field that does not reflect your desired profession. What can you do to ensure that your hard-earned skills remain current? I've discovered one enjoyable means—volunteering. If this possibility sounds intriguing to you, perhaps sharing my experiences will provide the inspiration.

Available Options

After graduating with a BA in English, I had hoped to pursue a career in medical writing. However, immediately after graduation, we relocated to the USA. Canadian-educated technical writers can qualify for an employment visa, but only if they have three years experience in their chosen field. As a new graduate, that option was out. I do work here on a part-time basis, but not as a technical writer. However, being part-time allows me the flexibility to contribute my newly-acquired skills on a regular basis.

Volunteer organizations are not usually looking for writers. Don't let that discourage you. It's amazing how one position can be parlayed into something more relevant. Allow me to explain.

Montshire Museum of Science

Norwich, Vermont is home to the fascinating Montshire Museum of Science. On Monday afternoons you'll find me here, explaining exhibits to guests. I've done this regularly since October, and thus have become acquainted with most of the full-time staff. It turns out that the museum has a Web site; also, several of the exhibits feature computer stations with explanatory text. I made the staff aware of my degree, and mentioned that I'd welcome the opportunity to contribute my writing skills. As a result, I've been introduced to the person in charge of the Web site, and I've been invited to help write whenever I have the time.

Nature Centre for Predatory Birds

Near the small village where I live is a nature centre for predatory birds. You know how it is in small towns...it's not difficult to find out who's involved with what. I've met the co-founder of the nature centre and asked if some technical communication skills would be of help. As a result, I'll be meeting with their team of researchers in a few weeks to help write factual materials.

Other Options

Did you work in another field before becoming a technical communicator? Perhaps that profession has a trade journal that would welcome your contribution. 

And finally, don't overlook your local STC chapter as a source of inspiration. Vermont's chapter recently teamed up with the Montreal chapter to offer a competition. Vermont was looking for judges to evaluate a document entry. Although I had no experience, my offer to help was received enthusiastically. This allowed me the opportunity to view and comment on a technical document and also to network with some (employed) technical communicators from Burlington, VT. Great experience...I hope to be asked again next year.

Conclusion

It's said that if you pursue a career doing something you truly love, you'll never be "working". I'm passionate enough about the opportunity to write that I'd gladly do it without pay (well, at least for now). Thus, volunteering works well for me. I'm contributing to my newly-adopted community while putting my hard-earned degree to good use. And who knows? When I get a Green Card, one of those volunteer positions just might lead to a job!

About Diane Russell

Diane lives in Quechee, Vermont. She welcomes any comments or feedback.