Re: job-hunt weirdness

[Michael West <WestM -at- ap -dot- aurecongroup -dot- com>]

I wrote: 
> >Instead of scratching one's head, one might consider whether 
deficiencies
> >in grammar, syntax, focus and clarity might (just possibly) exist in 
the
> >writing samples one supplies to prospective employers.

"Dave" wrote: 
> Please explain. I don't see the connection between the discussion 
> subject and your comments.


You don't see a connection between substandard English or unfocused 
exposition in submitted writing samples (including a résumé ) and the 
absence of a positive response on a job application for a writing 
position?

Reading the Techwrl list over the years, I have noted  that those who 
complain longest and loudest about not getting the jobs, salaries, 
promotions, "respect" or other recognition they feel they're entitled to, 
and those whose writing is markedly deficient in the qualities I 
enumerated in my comment, are frequently the same people.

It is, of course,  possible, though not likely, that these defects are 
somehow expunged when a job-seeker submits a resume and cover letter, or 
completes a technical writing project. That's why I wrote "just possibly".

One may argue that the rules of clear writing don't apply when posting to 
a public discussion group. I disagree. I don't think care with language 
and respect for readers can be turned on and off. Twenty-something years 
in the business have taught me this.

I'm not suggesting, by the way, that this is the only possible explanation 
for not getting a call-back. But I didn't see anyone mention it, and it 
seemed particularly applicable at that particular point in the discussion 
(for reasons that I  think need no further elaboration).

--
Mike West














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