Growing Pains – Career Development

The goal of my little blog series is to write about things I’ve learned since I’ve become a full-time technical writer. One of the most important things I’ve learned is how to learn from other writers. It seems like a simple concept…I mean people have been apprenticing trades since ancient times, but I think there’s a tendency – especially in my generation – to ignore or neglect the importance of mentoring.

I definitely don’t have the whole career thing figured out, and I can’t even say that I’ve set out to even find a mentor. I’ve just been fortunate to meet people who have been willing to be both my friend and my guide. When I was in undergrad, I met a professor who became a huge influence on my academic goals; he guided me through independent study and an honors thesis, he introduced me to STC, and he encouraged me to pursue technical writing.

Years later, a coworker with a few more years writing than me became a friend and mentor. She helped me through my first, official writing position with advice and support and answers to weird and random grammar questions. More than that, as a member of STC and the local chapter’s advisory council she suggested that I get involved with the group as a way to network and improve my skills.

These are only two of many people who have taken the time and effort to support me and my professional goals. I’ve been so fortunate because I may not be a veteran writer, but I’ve benefited – repeatedly – from the experience, advice, and connections of more seasoned writers over the length of my career.

The majority of my connections have come through STC and my involvement with the local chapter. This year has been my first on the council and the opportunity to be a part of things has been huge for me – both personally and professionally. On a personal level, I’ve made friends, challenged myself, and become more confident in my abilities. Professionally, being on council has helped me network and develop my leadership skills.

STC has been a critical part of my career thus far, and I think a lot of technical communicators my age overlook it. Maybe the cost of membership doesn’t seem worth it. Maybe the traffic on the way to meetings is too inconvenient. Maybe all the writers there are going to be older and more experienced and won’t want to talk to the youngster. I’ve heard it all, and honestly, I’ve used all of those excuses before. It’s easy to just assume that taking the time out to participate in something like STC isn’t worth the money or inconvenience, but for me, the opportunity to take some initiative on my own career development has been invaluable.

The most important lesson I’ve learned is that apprenticeship may not be required, but it’s often critical to our success and growth. At least, it has been for me. I’d suggest that all young writers find a mentor and become involved in a local professional organization like STC. Really, what do you have to lose?