🚀 go-pugleaf

I've been reading the responses about Technical Writing and hope 
more technical writers will respond and give me advice on how to 
get started.  I may wish to be self-employed for awhile, but 
would like to hear about contract agreements, and how to land a 
full-time job too.

I'm a computer programmer now, with an MS in Information Systems 
Management, extensive computer experience with a wide range of 
languages, software, and operating system.  For the past 3 years 
I've been an Oracle Database developer/dba and systems manager 
of a VAX 4000.  I learn computer "stuff" very fast.  Most of my 
programming has been done for applications in the health field.

I also have a BA in English Literature and wrote extensively 
in my previous job - reports, grant proposals, user manuals, 
administrative memos, etc...  Now I just update user manuals now 
and then, but my writing skills are still intact.  Oh!  I also 
did graduate work in instructional design and wrote a few manuals 
as an internship with my alma mater's Center for Instructional 
Design.

So there's my background.  I think I have both the writing skills 
and technical expertise in computers to make a go of it.  But how 
does one get started?  How well, in your experience, does 
self-employment work for technical writers.

There is a reorganization going on now where I work.  So far I've 
been spared, but there is a possibility I'll be laid off.  Since 
I'm pregnant and expecting in late April, I think I'll have a 
tough time getting a new job until after the baby comes.  
(Employers really don't hire pregnant women, do they?)  So I'm 
weighing all my options and if I do get laid off, this might be a 
good time to explore technical writing.  Also, with the cost of 
daycare, being self-employed (if I can get any work done) might 
work out well.

Any suggestions?

- Peggy -