Mark Clifford

1. www.cliffordsells.com
Self Marketing
and
Professional Development
Philadelphia Metro Conference
March 11, 2006
Mark Clifford

2. www.cliffordsells.com
Why me?
• 25+ years in technical communication
• Over 20 years recruiting for both employers
and clients
• Run my own information design and
recruitment company

3. www.cliffordsells.com
Research – 5WH
Who is looking?
- Company, Agency
Where are they looking?
- Professional sources, local
or national adverts
Why are they looking?
- Expansion, replacement
What are they looking for?
- Job title and function
When do I need to respond?
- Make the time for a good
job
How do I find out more?
- Web site, Google, company,
agency
Who, What, Where, When, Why and How

4. www.cliffordsells.com
Showcase yourself …
It’s the buyer’s first view of your writing – it
must be your best!
Your résumé / CV
– Your ‘sales brochure’
– Adapt for the job – you’ve done the research,
don’t waste it
– Get it reviewed – spell check doesn’t work!

5. www.cliffordsells.com
Showcase yourself some more …
Develop a web site
– CV
– Portfolio
Build a portfolio
– E-versions – web and browser-based CD
– CD (non-browser)
– Hardcopy if appropriate

6. www.cliffordsells.com
Manage your reputation
References
– Written – quotes on web site, letters
– Verbal – phone calls
Networking
– Professional societies
– Local events & activities
Word of mouth
– Do you know someone at the company?

7. www.cliffordsells.com
Focus
Generalist?
– A good all-round Technical Communicator who
can write about anything
Specialist?
– By industry – financial, aerospace,
pharmaceutical
– By type – online help, marketing communications
– Cross-sector – software, networks

8. www.cliffordsells.com
Maintaining your skills
Trends
– Recognising directions
– What will enhance your skills?
– What increases your value?
Education and Training
– What do you need for your job?
– Maintain & grow your marketable skills
– Who pays?

9. www.cliffordsells.com
Further points and questions