Re: How are Technical Writers (no apostrophe for plural, mate) Perceived

["Kevin Christy" <kevinchristy -at- socal -dot- rr -dot- com>]

D. said:

>>I am doing a paper on technical writers and require some input from
our side of the fence.  Basically, the angle is, how do we remove the
negative preconceptions that others have about us?<<

Speaking only for myself, I am reminded of the scripture (Romans 12:3, for
the interested) that says, "Do not think of yourselves more highly than you
ought, but in sober judgment". There is an impulse common in professionals
to "be on the alert" for treatment that doesn't recognize their status,
gifts, and experience. We are too often ready to take offense at SMEs who
don't treat us "with the respect we deserve."  Being detail-oriented,
perhaps we tend to nitpick. We can, at times, be preachy and pedantic. None
of this sits well with our co-workers.

To remove the negative preconceptions, we have to behave in such a way that
builds a new conception. So, let me turn the question around: How do you
*want* to be seen? That will dictate how you behave, if you're honest.

Peace!

Kevin


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