During a recession, companies tend to cut back and advertising is often the first thing to go. Yet, studies have shown that the most successful companies after a recession are the ones who advertised aggressively during the recession. The reason is simple: when your competition gets slim, it’s easier to make your voice heard.
By the same token, you can’t afford not to be an STC member during the current economic situation. We’re all tightening our wallets and making adjustments, but your STC membership will be invaluable in navigating through these challenging times.
There are many benefits to joining the STC. Two-week advance access to the job bank puts you ahead of the competition, and the salary survey tells you how much your skill set is worth. The member forums are great places to get involved and meet your peers, and the STC publications (Coastlines, Technical Communication, News and Notes, and Intercom) offer ample opportunity to contribute your writing. Over the past few months, STC has offered a number of resources for technical writers, including free webinars, resume tips, and job-hunting advice.
More than anything, your local STC chapter is an important networking resource. Nearly 70% of jobs are never advertised. Positions are filled by word of mouth and by referral, and the STC Canada West Coast chapter offers plenty of opportunities to network with technical writers, managers, and employers. Whether it’s at a program meeting or over a plate of yam fries at a contractor’s group meeting, the chapter is full of friendly, helpful people.
The STC-CWC is making it easier than ever to stay connected. We’re the first STC chapter to go virtual, and we’re working on making all of our program meetings available to remote participants. The forum is a great place to start conversations, ask questions, and talk with your fellow members. It’s also easy for members to network virtually, through our LinkedIn group and on Twitter. Whether you live in the Lower Mainland, the interior, Vancouver Island, or northern BC, you can still be part of the STC community.
In addition to regular programming meetings, we’re working on a number of professional development seminars. Further, we’ll be posting details about the upcoming documentation competition. The competition is a great opportunity to have your work reviewed by seasoned professionals, and winners get their work entered into the international competition. Of course, there’s also Coastlines. Anyone is welcome to submit articles to our online newsletter. Not only will our newsletter editor love you for it, but you’ll gain exposure amongst your peers and potential employers.
In addition, you could win a prize just for renewing your membership! The STC is currently holding a membership drive membership drive and is offering a number of prizes to the winning chapter. You have until March 20th to renew and be eligible to win. Renew your membership here.
And if you want to learn more or get involved, we’re always looking for keen volunteers. You don’t have to be in the Lower Mainland to volunteer: our current volunteer roster includes people from Kelowna and California! Getting involved is certainly one of the best ways to grow your network, meet new people, and create relationships that will propel your career forward.
If you know of friends or co-workers with lapsed memberships, why not pass this article on? They may be interested in finding out about all the new developments in the chapter, and especially our new virtual status.
As we move into uncertain times, it’s comforting to know you’re not facing challenges alone. The STC is here to support you, provide opportunities to grow, and connect you with your peers.
