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: TW or Computer Operator? From:Jo Francis Byrd <jbyrd -at- byrdwrites -dot- com> To:techwr-l -at- lists -dot- raycomm -dot- com Date:Thu, 02 Dec 1999 13:10:28 -0600
My least favorite question from recruiters: "How long have you known such and
such?"
This usually indicates a high level of ignorance on the recruiter's part. I've
started countering with a sweet smile, even if it is over the phone, and saying,
quite gently, "That's the wrong question. The question is how WELL do I know it.
For example, I've known whatever for x years, but on a scale of one to ten....I
might be a one - if I'm lucky. I've only known whachamacallit for y years, but
on a scale of one to ten, I'm probably at least an eight, more likely nine."
How long we've known a tool may have little to do with our proficiency in a
tool. We always need to make that distinction when knowledge in a specific tool
is required.
Jo Byrd
Anthony Markatos wrote:
> Kathleen Kuvinka said, in part:
>
> ... I want to know what tools you used in the past, and for how long, and what
> you created with them (a pamphlet? a book?).
>
> And Tony Markatos responded:
>
> This sounds like the comments of a Kelly (Temporary) Services placement
> specialist looking to place a computer operator - for about ten bucks an
> hour. Really!
