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.
> > The project manager fired off an e-mail genuinely
> > thanking everyone for
> > their effort and specifically thanking me for
> > "beautifying" the
> > documentation. I'm, er, not entirely happy with
> > that. It would have been
> > better had nothing been said. "Beautifying"
> > ????????????
> Sean. I think you're being overly sensitive.
I don't think he is being overly sensitive. Beautifying is not a term I
would like to use to describe what I do. It's one of those weird terms that
praises and belittles at the same time.
However, I do like John's suggestion of listing the other positive
contributions Sean made to the project. Even though the manager singled Sean
out for his good work, simply saying that Sean beautified a document is not
only patronizing, but it justifies a dangerous mindset with the other
members of the team ("I don't have time to answer your questions! I'm make a
serious contribution to the project, not just "prettying-up" a document!").
I think it's sometimes tough in our business to be assertive and promote our
craft without being arrogant or pretentious. It's a very narrow ledge.
--
Be seeing you,
Dave
---------------------------------------------------
John David Hickey
Grand Poohbah of Documentation
ToonBoom Technologies
Montreal, Quebec, Canada eh?
pg: 514-205-9209
They say the pen is mightier than the sword.
But if you miss a deadline, you'd better bring the sword.
---------------------------------------------------
Don't confuse my opinions with my employer's.
Each exists in blissful ignorance of the other.
