Morning social: Chat about writing assignments in the hiring process

It's time to reconnect with other documentarians over a beverage of your choice! Join us for a focused and friendly conversation to support and network with each other.

Getting hired for technical writing jobs requires more than our resumes, reputations, and portfolios. Writing is only one element of what we do; as tech writers, we bring a diverse set of skills to our jobs. The hiring process for technical writing roles can include timed writing tests, take-home assignments, editing existing content, and other technical skill evaluations.

As candidates, we might be asked to rewrite dodgy content or draft instructions for a device in the position they’ve applied for. Or, early career writers might be requested to write about a topic that is totally unrelated, like making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Writing tests can help the hiring team assess applicants’ skills, but some candidates have wondered, “Am I providing free labor?” Other candidates consider assessments beneficial and embrace the opportunity to learn new skills and add samples to their portfolios.

Writing assignments must change in the wake of AI tools like ChatGPT. See Hiring technical writers in a ChatGPT world.

Let’s talk about writing assignments that are part of the hiring process:

• Have you completed a timed or live writing test as a job applicant?
• Have you completed a take-home writing assignment?
• Did you learn new skills and enjoy the challenge?
• Did you receive compensation for your work?
• Have you created or assigned a writing test as part of the hiring team?
• What other methods can be used to assess writing skills?
• Do you have any tips?

Bring your questions and thoughts. We’ll share knowledge and get to know each other.

We'll be using Zoom for this social. Register for the event to receive the Zoom link here in the event description.