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Most writing tests ARE a waste of time. When I give them, I also evaluate
the candidate on the kinds of questions they ask me, can they figure out how
to get around the application on their own, do they freak out when asked to
log in, and half a dozen other things only marginally related to writing.
The good ones also have given me new ideas to consider in documenting the
software.
As for drug tests, hate 'em, but if it's a requirement then I do it.
Connie
-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew Plato [mailto:intrepid_es -at- yahoo -dot- com]
Sent: Friday, October 20, 2000 1:53 PM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: Writing / Drug Tests
Writing Tests
Waste of time. Because technical writing is really only about 1/4 writing
and
3/4 being able to gather, manipulate, and comprehend complex information.
Lots
of people have excellent grammar and spelling but are abysmal technical
writers. Sorry, but writing just is not that important. Writers who do not
have the brainstem power to handle complex information and make it useful
will
pass writing tests with flying colors but bomb when it comes to dealing with
a
complex document.
You're better off to just rigorously interview people. You're digging for a
work ethic, not a perfect handle of FrameMaker. Good people will rise to
the
challenge and get a job done. Goof offs will BS their way through in and
then
whine when things get hairy.
Drug Tests
If you don't do drugs, what the hell do you care? Invasion of privacy? Give
me
a break. There is no such thing as privacy. It is an illusion people create
to
make themselves feel "special". If I wanted to I could hijack virtually
anybody's identity with just a few phone calls and letters. Privacy is a
joke
in today's world. Ultimately - nobody really cares about you and that is
what
keeps your secrets private.
If you do drugs, then don't be surprised when the world rejects you. I don't
want druggies working at my company either. Take the test or get lost. If it
wasn't for whacked out loser suing companies for billions, you wouldn't have
to
take such tests.
Now, get back to work before we make you take a writing test about drugs!
Andrew Plato
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