Ask Headmaster Ken

Hi,

I have a BA and MA in Creative Writing from San Francisco State University but have worked in the Technical Writing area for the past 25 years. I have been involved in establishing ISO 9000 standardization for business and ISO 15189 for medical labs.

I have gained a lot of knowledge over the years covering a broad range of disciplines and would like to obtain a position teaching this material in a foreign environment. The quality of documentation produced in foreign countries is really poor and especially with regards to following ISO standards. I am hoping that this would be popular in China. Many U.S. universities now offer degree programs in this area.

What do you recommend that I do to seek out such a position?

Lastly, I have enjoyed your articles on staring a new school in China very much. I find your generosity and intelligent insight most amazing. Thanks for reading this.

Regards,

Brian Flaherty

PS. Any suggestions on where to submit my CV would be most appreciated.

Hello Brian,

The role of a technical writer is similar to that of a job/task analyst, in that they both add value to the "product", whatever the product may be.

You most likely will not find such a job in China by virtue of being in China. This type of work would be best found outside of China. In other words, don't come here looking for such work, but secure the job first from abroad.

I suggest you look at two avenues. First, contact western firms that do business in China. There are numerous expat websites you can use. Don't be afraid to simply send them your resume even though they don't advertise such a position.

The second avenue would be to approach Chinese companies that do business in the west. One good source would be http://www.alibaba.com. Many of the companies advertise they are ISO certified. You would need to send your resume and cover letter in Chinese.

I wish you success.