Resource Tables Welcome New STC Members

—written by Phil Khan, Digital Jive Services

Wine and Cheese night

Combining business with pleasure, the STC Toronto Chapter held its annual 'Wine and Cheese' on the evening of February 12th. This year's theme was 'Resources for New Members' and along with the food and drink an impressive amount of help was on offer for new technical writers.

Eight tables were set up for people to visit, each of which had a host
who led the discussion of a different resource. While the hosts had
a lot of knowledge to share, many other members contributed to
the lively and useful discussions.

Perhaps on account of the weak economy, the 'Job Hunting Resources'
table was a very popular one. Tony Iacovino went into detail on how to
build a convincing portfolio and how to use it in an interview
situation. He also looked over several résumés and gave concrete
advice on how they could be made more appealing to potential employers.

Jane Aronovitch was the lively host of the 'Sole Practitioner' table.
She hit on every aspect of running a technical writing business, from
how to find new clients to the 'pros and cons' of incorporating. She
also passed on this advice from her mentor which served her well as a
new technical writer: print up some business cards, join an
organization (like the STC), and hand them out.

The 'Second Career' table was hosted by Richard Parker. A former
teacher, he left that profession to become a technical writer, a move
he does not regret. His advice for people looking to make the same jump
was to build their portfolio through volunteer work.

Hosting the 'SIGS (special interest groups) and STC Chapter activities'
table was David Gow. As the leader of the Framemaker SIG, he shared some
of his extensive experience with that application. David also
discussed the other SIGS and activities the STC has to offer.

The remaining tables were hosted by Toronto schools who offer technical
writing programmes. Humber College, Seneca College, George Brown
College and the University of Toronto were all on hand to discuss the
growing number of courses and certificates for technical writers.
Anyone considering a course was able to compare what the different
schools have on offer.

This was a great evening which was of particular value to new technical
writers. A show of hands indicated that the event attracted a good
number of people who had not been to an STC meeting before. The
excellent wine and good advice both flowed freely, to the benefit and
enjoyment of all who attended.