TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
It seems that what you are experiencing is the development of a relatively
new career field. Or you might have had some glowing ideas that weren't
accurate in reality. Few people have the same idea of what a technical
writer does, even your supervisors. I have experienced the same rootlessness
and lack of guidance you have...it seems that honest, nonthreatening,
friendly and progressive communication is key, with an eye to developing
along paths that agree with the expectations of others, needs of the job,
and your ideals. Compromise may be necessary with willingness to tolerate
uncertainty. Count yourself lucky in your salary advancement in a hot
field. For some, that alone is the whole point.
