TechWhirl (TECHWR-L) is a resource for technical writing and technical communications professionals of all experience levels and in all industries to share their experiences and acquire information.
For two decades, technical communicators have turned to TechWhirl to ask and answer questions about the always-changing world of technical communications, such as tools, skills, career paths, methodologies, and emerging industries. The TechWhirl Archives and magazine, created for, by and about technical writers, offer a wealth of knowledge to everyone with an interest in any aspect of technical communications.
Subject:Re: Not fighting back From:Rowena Hart <rhart -at- INTRINSYC -dot- COM> Date:Mon, 24 Aug 1998 09:31:31 -0700
Tim et al,
Just a quick note about my earlier message: I do agree that folks
should stand up for themselves in day-to-day debates and argu-
ments around the office. Every office has its rough and tumble
days, no matter how idyllic the environment. However, if a situation
is truly untenable, and IMO the situation that Anonymous describes
is untenable, then you have to consider how much you're willing
to tolerate to change the situation.
Personally, I don't think anyone I've worked with would think that
I am a push-over or that I run from a fight. However, my preference
would be to leave a job rather than get into a raging argument
with a harasser. I am just not capable of it. I'm happier dealing
with the stress of finding a new job and plying my skills elsewhere.
Rowena
-----Original Message-----
<snip>
>Rowena, I understand your reasons for backing away in many circumstances,
>but there are some things that a worker should consider about
confrontation.
>It's not just a matter of fighting back for survival.
>
>First, although confrontation can be debilitating, it's no less
debilitating
>in many cases than an ignominious departure. Confrontation doesn't have to
>be done with fists flailing