This document discusses how technical writers can expand their roles beyond just writing content. It suggests that technical writers learn about the wider organization, identify connections between content and users, and solve other teams' problems. The document provides examples of new areas for technical writers, such as content quality, customer experience, analytics, and strategy. It advises technical writers to determine their interests and skills gaps, build relationships, and get support to develop a new vision for their role within the organization.
I know what you’re thinking, but the new breed of technical writer is NOT a Jack-of-all-trades, but a versatile professional with specific skills and knowledge to solve problems in any area of the organization where content lives.
Where does content fit into the customer journey? Everywhere!
How do you connect content and customers throughout the customer journey?
Go outside the building!
Content is everywhere!
Examine connections between content and people/content and customers---what are the pain points?
Make a plan!
Enlist volunteers for your effort and communicate the benefits to the team and the organization (new skills and knowledge, solving real problems)
Articulate how you can address pain points for others by leveraging your skills, knowledge, and expertise
Learn new skills + seek knowledge that connects your content with others’, then demonstrate the benefits!
Communicate the benefits of your work
Benefits for you and volunteers? New skills and knowledge = growth
Your value to the organization and your versatility increase