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Subject:RE: giving feedback to non writers From:"Giordano, Connie" <connie -dot- giordano -at- twcable -dot- com> To:"TECHWR-L" <techwr-l -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com> Date:Fri, 4 Feb 2005 10:35:11 -0500
Eileen,
I work with non-writers constantly, to the point where I have a
reputation as the department cleaner upper... And they now seek me or my
staff to help them whenever they have something that will be read by
senior management.
Here's what has worked for me:
Display a sense of humor... I am not the grammar goddess, and try hard
to make sure they know that, and that I make lots of silly errors
myself.
Thank them for coming to you for assistance, and for providing the base
content.
Remind them that you understand they're not professional writers, and
that this isn't a condemnation of their abilities--I can't balance my
checkbook on the first try, or configure a Windows server, so I have to
rely on others for their expertise, this just happens to be mine.
When I edit things, it's to provide clarity and simplicity, not prove
somebody's incompetence.
"It's kind of fun to do the impossible." - Walt Disney
-----Original Message-----
From: bounce-techwr-l-175203 -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com
[mailto:bounce-techwr-l-175203 -at- lists -dot- techwr-l -dot- com] On Behalf Of Neumann,
Eileen
Sent: Friday, February 04, 2005 10:17 AM
To: TECHWR-L
Subject: giving feedback to non writers
Hi Whirlers,
Does anyone have any tips for me on giving feedback to non writers on
their documents? I'm in a group with non-writers who are writing manuals
for training purposes. They don't know writing, or that there's anything
to know about writing. They are peers.
Their work isn't great, from the point of view or organization and
writing to a particular audience. How much feedback to give? Management
does want me to advise. I've been burned in the past (at a different
company) for doing this, as it was not appreciated.
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