Name: Caleb Keown
Job title: Technical Content Developer at Bazaarvoice Belfast
What does your typical day look like?
I usually start the day by going through my emails, and look at Slack, our messaging platform, to check for direct messages and other information on company channels. I then get stuck into technical writing and UX writing until lunch. I try to make time for my own personal training in the morning as well. This mainly consists of reading articles and books about how to improve my writing skills, and putting what I’ve learnt into practice through short exercises. As I work closely with staff in Texas, my afternoons are full of planning meetings and style discussions with them once they are up!
What are you currently working on?
I have been working on ReviewSource, a really exciting product that gives our clients fresh review content to add to their websites.
What inspired you to join this company in particular?
I was really impressed with the opportunities available to staff to develop their skills, and the freedom to take your career in a specific direction as a result. I also hope to have the chance to use my background in translation as the company expands into new regions and languages.
Did you always want to work in this industry (tech)?
No, actually! After my PhD (in Translation), I was more interested in building on my PhD in academia. However, when I saw how I could use and develop my writing skills as a technical writer, I started to think more seriously about moving into tech instead.
What’s your favourite part about your work?
As someone new to UX writing, I love being at the start of the design process and the challenge of getting the right information across when there is little space to play with. It is brilliant too to work closely with a wide range of colleagues across areas like engineering, design and product development.
What would you say to other people considering a job in the tech industry?
Don’t worry about what job you’re in now or what degree you have - there are loads of opportunities out there, even if you have not worked in the industry before. I am not from a tech background at all, and so I am telling you this from experience! Speak to friends and any other connections in the industry. It may even be the case that your current company will give you the chance to train up for an internal tech role.
What do you consider to be the most important tech innovation or development in recent years?
The area of climate change attribution - showing the role of climate change in extreme weather - is hugely significant to how we understand, plan for and tackle the increase in severe weather events.
What tech gadget could you not live without?
My Macbooks - plural! I use them pretty constantly for work and play.
Read more about our Tech Trailbazers on Sync NI here. Find out more about Bazaarvoice Belfast's job opportunities on our Jobs page here.
