Best Practices for Successful Writers, Content Managers, Information Designers and Delivery Professionals
Congratulations on accepting an assignment with Clear Point. We expect that every assignment will be an asset to your career. Here are a list of Best Practices we recommend when starting a new assignment.
If the SOW is clear and explicit, follow it. Don’t stray from the deliverables even if you think you can “improve” what they are doing. If the SOW if not specific but more like “technical writing per direction of __________” then formulate a plan based on what your manager says, and ask for validation that you understand the objectives correctly.
Once the deliverables are clear, make sure you get to know your key contacts. These are the people that are vital to getting your job done. They are the information sources and stakeholders that you will rely on to be successful in your position.
Be proactive in introducing yourself to them and establishing a relationship. Ask when the best times for you to meet with them are. Ask the stakeholders if your work is in line with their expectations on a regular basis.
Whether you have an explicit SOW or word of mouth direction, it is imperative to check in at least weekly, to see if the client is satisfied. A written status report of what you’ve done and where you are against the objectives is recommended.
Do not use your corporate email for personal correspondence. Use your cell phone for personal calls and be sure they are “off the clock”.
Most contracts do not proceed in a straight line. Whatever changes happen, adjust your work as necessary and validate once again that you are on the right track.
Challenging assignments give you the chance to showcase the qualities and skills that will make you even more attractive to future employers—and they offer an opportunity to earn a great reference. A satisfied client is someone who received a product done with grace under pressure by a flexible and positive individual. Always leave them better than when you started. That’s success!
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We help talented technical writers and trainers discover new opportunities with some of New England’s best employers. |
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“I’ve landed more interviews and good projects through Clear Point than any other way. They took the time to really understand the kind of projects I wanted and why. It’s great to have Clear Point thinking of me when a client company has a technical writing challenge.”
- Bruce DeRienze, Senior Technical Writer
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