I put these calls out from time to time, and the offer still stands: I’m happy to take posting requests or answer questions on topics of interest to my readers. Intellectually honest fellow that I am, I won’t guarantee 100% success. However, I’ve managed to make it this far in my career and still stay employed, so I must be doing something right.
How My Q&A Process Works
You can respond to this post in the comments below or email me at bart at heroictechwriting.com.
Whatever question you have, the odds are good that you’re not the only one asking it. Therefore, I’ll probably turn my answer into a blog entry on this page. I will use your first name in the post and, if relevant, where you’re from and what you do.
If you’d prefer to keep your question and my answer confidential (i.e., not make it a blog post), I’m willing to do that ; however, please note that I am not a lawyer, nor should you take any advice from me as coming from one. There’s no such thing as “blogger-audience confidentiality.”
I will email you my response as soon as I can; I will post a blog version of my response, which could include additional thoughts, on the closest Monday or Thursday following my email.
What Sorts of Questions I Answer
- How do I do [X technical writing task]?
- What’s it like to work in [X] industry? (Easier if you ask me about an industry I’ve actually worked in–see my Publications page for insights.
- How do I get a job in [X] industry? (See previous question.)
- How do I handle [X situation] in the workplace/with a client?
- Should I become a technical writer?
Things I Will Not Do
As noted above, I am not a lawyer; therefore, if you have a question regarding an active legal proceeding, please consult a lawyer. I will offer my inputs on whether you should proceed with a business opportunity, but given that I won’t know all the details or players involved, the ultimate decision is yours.
I can suggest strategies and tactics for your job search. However, if you need in-depth guidance on career counseling, I know a coach or two I can recommend.
I will not tell you how much money I make.
I might or might not answer a personal question. If it relates to the overall theme of this blog–the business of technical writing–I’ll consider it.
Unless I know you and have worked with you personally, I will not provide letters of recommendation.
As science-fiction writer Larry Niven puts it, I am “not responsible for advice not taken.”
All that said, what have you got for me? I know folks are reading, but some of you might be too shy to ask a question. Given that I’ll treat your name anonymously (and am happy to remove any distinguishing details that would “give you away”), what have you got to lose?
I look forward to hearing from you.
