I am an active participant in web forums discussing the field of Technical Writing and I enjoy offering advice based on my own experiences and observations. A lot of folks have been impacted with the economic challenges in the past year. In many technical writing forums I'm seeing comments from individuals who are having a hard time getting work as technical writers, especially senior level tech writers. I've made the comments there and others found them so useful, I've decided to compile them and post them here.

Location

In the current economy, there are less jobs in rural locations emphasizing the need for entrepreneurship for folks living in those environments. For those of us who are living in urban locations, there are usually a few companies doing most of the hiring, and most of that hiring is contract work. What I've seen in job postings and job discussions is that most of these employers want someone who can hit the ground running, not only in terms of writing ability, but in the ability to absorb and comprehend the technology quickly. 

Diversity in industry is vital to a successful career because it gives you options. If you live in an area that is dependent on one industry (e.g. automotive), and that whole industry is impacted, you might be stuck. Either consider applying your expertise to other fields or consider relocating to an area with more job opportunities.

Expertise

Having a field of expertise is vital to being a successful technical writer. Consider taking continuing education courses to keep current in your chosen area. Some areas to consider: computer software, computer hardware, computer networking, computer security (this includes Sarbanes-Oxley and other "policy" areas, it doesn't have to be "technical"), biotechnology, "green" technology, health care or health insurance related areas, and financial areas (e.g. economics).

I've seen many comments from older technical writers who are particularly challenged in the current economy. The key issue with older technical writers is the concern that they aren't as current and adaptable in the face of new technologies. Traditionally older employees are seen as being more stuck in their ways. Show an interest and skill in recent technological developments; take continuing education and other training courses to keep current.

Experience

Volunteer your skills for community driven projects to showcase your expertise and your talent. Even if you're steadily employed, these types of projects help you stay current and keep you out of a rut.

Adaptability

I believe the key challenge to the current economy is adaptation. The US Economy has been evolving steadily over the past 10 years as more manufacturing and service jobs are sent overseas. With less manufacturing work, there is less technical writing work in manufacturing industries. Technical writers with a lot of experience in those areas may have opportunities in the future "green" economy with the Smart Grid and Green manufacturing jobs, but we won't start seeing that boom until 2014.

In the current economy, most work for technical writers is on a contract, project-specific basis. The work environment where you work for one company for many years and retire is gone. If you don't have any other source of income (e.g. spouse) you really have to live within your means and count on periods of unemployment. Start your own business so you can take on freelance work in between big gigs. Eventually, maybe when the economy stabilizes or after building a reputation, you'll find a company that needs a full time technical writer on staff. In the meantime, adjust your lifestyle appropriately.

Technical Writing is not just about WRITING. It's about Technology as well. I recommend taking continuing education courses to get up to speed on some new technology, maybe even seek out a Continuing Education certification in some area, just to show you are still current and active with regards to your technological skill set. Also consider contributing to open source software projects to avoid resume gaps!!

The key to being a successful technical writer is to be more than just a writer.
You must possess knowledge of the topics you write about. You must be both Technical and a Writer.