Keeping the Job by being "Professional"
Well, Friday a meeting with my boss and her boss confirmed that I am NOT going to lose my job, even though the work is changing. Big sigh of relief. Basically they were critiquing my communications, and stressing they should be "Professional, Accurate, and Address the Client's Needs." The challenge comes in understanding how they define professional, accurate, and client's needs. I am being told to just do what they say - use the template answers and don't be overly helpful. Basically, not thinking. However, the upside is that work should be easy, and my thinking power will be free for learning from WA and earning a second income.
There's a LOT to learn, and tons of great resources here. The trick is just finding the ones I need before I make (more) mistakes! However, I want to thank everyone who commented on my last WA blog, because I learned a lot. The light bulb went off and now I understand the difference between offering feedback and giving site comments.
Here's another question: How much of your own personality should an author include in the writing? For example, my last paragraph had a potentially unprofessional phrase in it -- "the light bulb went off" -- should I have phrased it with less personality?
Recent Comments
16
Hi Dianne,
Congratulations on the job aspect. At least you don't have to worry about being unemployed for now.
I'm with Timos, write from the heart. My PR professor always says people will read articles that they can relate to. Your blog are always well written. I know you'll do well.
Cecile
Personality in your writing is always a good thing as long as you are mindful of your intended audience. For example, sense of humour varies between the UK and USA :)
Well it is really how you feel because some readers may love that personal touch and some may not so I think just write how you feel from the heart
Hi Diana, glad to hear you still have your job.
As far as professionalism is concerned, that depends totally on your audience... remember if you are not writing an essay, a novel, thesis, etc.... it's perfectly fine to reveal some of your personality. Remember on thing, write for yourself, not write for others. Hope this helps. Bernie
I say write from within, just type as it comes to you because readers can see right through the professionalism you may try to implement. Once you are done just re read it and make the corrections that need to be made. Be yourself and people will enjoy it!
Best of luck and glad to hear the good news about your job.
Dear Diana.
only if i can write like you i would be on the top of the word!!! The best conversion and blog traffic one can get when writing is personal and click with a reader. I think you should not ask your self what you should say and how i'm enjoying reading your posts so I believe that you'll find your audience.
Best of luck and I'll be checking more of your post
Great news on your job. Now breath easy and let this WA thing wash over you like a hot shower. Do well, Robert
See more comments
Diana, glad to hear about your job situation. That must be a great relief. =)
About your question re:writing style. This is just my opinion, but I feel writing for a site is like talking to people in person. You are using your voice but in written form. If your content is geared toward professionals, then the language should be professional. However, if the site has a casual feel, then the language would be expected to be casual. But, think about what and how you would talk at, for example, a friends BBQ party where kids, and grandpas, and others are within listening distance to a conversation you're having. What you wouldn't say there shouldn't be said on your site.
If, on the other hand, a site is meant for controversy (i.e. Howard Stern), then anything goes. =)
Thanks Susan.