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Re: Article On Getting Cooperation from Resource People
Subject:Re: Article On Getting Cooperation from Resource People From:"Arlen P. Walker" <Arlen -dot- P -dot- Walker -at- JCI -dot- COM> Date:Wed, 8 Feb 1995 16:39:00 -0600
* Get your ego under control. You are merely a humble writer, but this
person is a creator. Don't forget the respect that you owe them.
Good advice, but lines like the above have already caused mushroom clouds on
this list. Can I suggest we try to de-fuse some of the weaponry I hear warming
up by adding the word "also" after "this person is ..." in the above sentence?
Also, the "humble writer" bit is a useful attitude to keep in your toolbox, but
it isn't foolproof. I've worked with someone who wouldn't give me any help until
I proved I was as much a pro as he was. I had been trying the "humble writer"
routine, which he translated internally into "idiot." Don't let your ego get in
the way, but if your "target" (for lack of a better word, sorry I'm blocked at
the moment) is the type that doesn't go for the ego-boo, then you'll have to be
prepared to switch tactics.
But, on the whole, good advice.
Have fun,
Arlen
Chief Managing Director In Charge, Department of Redundancy Department
DNRC 24
Arlen -dot- P -dot- Walker -at- JCI -dot- Com
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