Who
I am, and why you should hire me:
- I
thrive when I have the opportunity to learn new things (I ask a lot of questions).
I love to learn from other people, but if there is no one around who can
teach me what I need to know, I will go and learn it on my own. One employer
said I was “proactive” when it came to tracking down the information
I needed to do my job, but the truth is, I’m just a curious sort.
- I
have a broad range of experience. I have written software manuals
ranging from warehouse logistics packages to medical imaging software. I
have written technical marketing copy, academic papers, training materials,
and newsletters. I have taught technical and business writing at a major
college, tutored students of varying ages and backgrounds, and done one-on-one
coaching.
- I’m
a great writer and a sharp-eyed editor. I know a lot of words,
I know a lot of styles, and I find grammar to be a truly interesting subject,
although I have learned that it doesn’t make for good party conversation.
I love the creative challenge of communicating complex information in such
a way that anyone can understand it.
- My
attitude is one of service. While I am happy to take a leadership
role, get myself the information and resources that I need, and generate
ideas, I believe that the most important thing is that my client is happy
with the end product. I believe in listening, taking in constructive criticism,
and respecting other opinions.
- There
is nothing I can’t get interested in. I am creative, energetic,
and highly analytical. I am going to approach any project with vigor and
enthusiasm, whether it’s writing a software manual, teaching someone
how to streamline their writing process, editing some marketing material,
or laying out a company newsletter. I have in the past gotten interested
in how print heads work, what a CT scanner is used for, how an image is
stored digitally, how sonomicrometers are used to research rodent heart
rates, and how a busy warehouse makes the most efficient use of its employees'
time.
- I
get a real kick out of programmers, engineers, scientists, and mathematicians
of all kinds.
I like the way they think; I like the way they work. I like the way they
communicate, but I realize not everyone does. So I've developed a talent
for translating from Geekish to English.
