Franklin Said:

Are there any truly entry level jobs out there?

We Answered:

Yes, but it will more than likely be a customer service / call center role. Straight out of college I got a job with Franklin Templeton Investments as a Customer Service Associate. Spent about two years working there. In hindsight, it served as a spring board to a better profession. It gave me professional experience.

Judith Said:

Desired salary for entry level tech writer?

We Answered:

I always write "open" if I am unsure of what they may or may not pay. That way, when they offer me a position, I am not bound to the figures I put on the paper. (especially if they would have paid more). This has always worked for me.

Francisco Said:

Can recent grads become entry-level technical writers, even with NO prior tech writing experience?

We Answered:

I can tell you the 'technical writers' where I work don't really have any clue about technology, so presumably you can. Most of them are older women, with a few younger ones. Of course a great way to get in the door would be to intern first and then get hired.

From my personal observations, there is a big difference in 'handling' jargon and understanding it. Technical writers will not notice a lot of obvious mistakes, so they depend on engineers to thoroughly review every document. That said, even if you were proficient in computer jargon, there will inevitably be a massive list of terms and acronyms specific to the particular job to learn anyway.

Since you asked for it, I can't imagine you can do much with a BA in 'Writing'. Everyone ought to have strong writing skills, regardless of career. I just developed mine by taking 6 long years of Latin in high school instead of majoring in English :)

Dianne Said:

How to break into technical writing?

We Answered:

I would suggest contacting a really good contracting firm in the area. They will give you jobs with little experience. Most like to see experience or training in the field you will be writting. Spherion is a good example of a nice firm. Look in the phone book under employement agencies, they have connections......

Alice Said:

Help!!!!!!!??? Multiple Choice!!!???

We Answered:

1) b
2) b
3) c
4) d