The STC CWC Contractor Directory has made steady and significant progress since its launch in late 2004, with 35 people adding their listings to the directory so far. Although the directory is still finding its feet in terms of how it is promoted to organizations and employers outside the STC, it has helped at least two contractors secure jobs recently. Odile Morrison of the Contractors’ Group says the service is just beginning to achieve its potential.
“Our aim was to populate the directory with good quality candidates,” says Morrison. “We plan to start publicizing the service to potential employers early next year.”
Successful contractors offer employers more than great writing skills.
The ideal candidate for the directory is the experienced technical communicator. Junior writers may want to seek work using other channels. “All the contractors currently listed in the directory have at least three years of experience,” says Morrison. “Most have more. I’d encourage junior writers to work with more experienced writers before they consider contracting. Successful contractors offer employers more than great writing skills. They need to show that they can run a project from beginning to end, stick to a timeline, and communicate effectively with clients and subject matter experts. It takes practice and exposure to good work habits to develop those skills.”
To add your listing to the directory, go to http://www.stcwestcoast.ca/directory/contractors.htm and fill out the online form there. The directory is updated weekly. Employers wishing to peruse the directory can access it from the “For Employers” section on the Canada West Coast chapter’s home page at http://www.stcwestcoast.ca. It costs nothing to browse the directory. Starting in January 2006, only STC members will be permitted to enter or edit their listings. Posting a profile will be free for Canada West Coast chapter members, and STC members from outside the chapter will pay a fee.
If the directory gets the promised promotional push in 2006, there’s every reason to expect that it will fulfill its potential as a one-stop shop for employers seeking seasoned technical communications professionals.
