Re printed version of the presentation, I don’t have one. Transcriptions of audio are really time consuming, and the written word contrasts with the spoken word in significant ways. You can download the MP3 by right-clicking the mp3 link and choosing Save Target As or Save Link As. Then drag it onto a playlist in iTunes and sync with your iPod (if you have an iPod). Podcasts are really intended to be listened to when you don’t have the ability to read. Of course if transcription were easy, I would do it because of the SEO benefits alone, not to mention the accessibility. Since I keep getting these same requests, I may have to figure out a technique for transcription.

Yes, I’m speaking to the Suncoast STC chapter in November. See you there.

One more question: Is there a way to download the audio from your presentation to an .mp3 or to my iPhone/iPod? I would love to listen on my drive to and from work!

Gina Fevrier

Thanks very much for letting us access your presentation on blogging for free through the STC. I started a WordPress blog a year ago as a test. I linked to yours on my Favorite Tech Writers’ Blogs page months ago. I think some tech writers are afraid to create a personal blog because they’re putting their own ideas and opinions out there. I say: No risk, no reward! After following your blog, Anne Gentle’s, Sarah Maddox’s and others, I think it’s a great idea to share info. I especially like the part of your presentation where you say that if you have something to say and it might help someone, there may be someone somewhere in the world that could really benefit from it, so blog about it (I’m paraphrasing, of course). I don’t know how tech writers today could look for a job without having a presence out there with a Web site or blog. I have another personal Web site that I’m considering taking down and just using the free WordPress one hosted by WordPress).

Is there a printed version of your presentation? That’s the one thing about audio and learning styles. I am completely visual and spatial, and I retain that much better than trying to recall something I’ve heard. One other small thing: it’s hard to hear the people in the audience, so I hope the STC gives them their own microphones next time.

Thank you very much for all the posts on your blog and this free presentation! I’m paying my way and attending my first STC summit in Dallas (May 2010) so I hope to see you there. I hear you’re speaking at our Suncoast STC meeting in Tampa in November, right?

Gina Fevrier