I got the following question this week:

I am a technical writer with experience in usability. I do not have a professional degree in design to support my credentials as a UX professional. Is it feasible for someone who is from non-design background to even to get a portfolio considered by the prospective employers?

This is somewhat similar to a question that I answered earlier about moving from engineering to user experience.  In short, it boils down to how you discuss your work to highlight the user experience work that you have done as a part of your technical writing role.

It is certainly possible to get your portfolio reviewed. Your portfolio should show how you have applied your experience and expertise to the problem domain at hand. I recently wrote about what a UX portfolio should contain.  Technical writing can have overlap with UX. It depends on the writer and their experience. Some writers simply interview subject-matter experts and turn that into documentation. Others do much more. Your portfolio will have to explain how your work shows that you understand user experience and user-centred design.

The most important thing to do is to read the job description to determine whether it is one for which you think you would be a good fit.  Then, write a cover letter and resume/CV that explain to the hiring manager why you would be a good fit.  Focus on your UX achievements and accomplishments.  You don’t need to have a specific background to be great in UX.  You do need to be able to explain how your background will make you a great fit for the UX position you want.