How to get my "foot in the door"

[baileytinn]

Originally Posted by brianjb

I would say that you have to be up to relocating to any location. You said you don't want to be in DC, but maybe take it and then look for other jobs elsewhere once you get experience.

Yep, you're absolutely right. I'm not a big city person at ALL, but again, beggars can't be choosers. It's all about getting your foot in, then looking for places you want to settle in. It really doesn't matter which part of VA I'm in, I just like to be on the east coast where the weather is warmer. I've been looking at Richmond though, since it seems to be rich in history without having that huge city feel. But I'm pretty much open to anything within the USA excluding CA... Although if worse comes to worse, I'd be moving there to get some experience in.

[jade408]

You need a portfolio of writing to really get into technical writing.

Look for roles at marketing agencies. You'd be surprised how much technical writign gets outsourced. Are you looking for very technical writing. Like system diagrams and product manuals. Or moderately technical?

I am not an engineer, but as a marketer I have had to write fairly technical stuff. Even managed to get an article in a good sized trade publication.

[AZgarden]

A writer needs writing samples to get anywhere. Just sit down and write something. Even if no one is paying you or asking for it. Pretend its a job, decide how to write what they want, and then do it.