Support—You Need It But There’s That Darn Asking Part
In one of my past lives, I was a technical writer. I wrote user manuals for computer softer, I created and taught classes, wrote frequently asked question pages; you name it. If it had to do clicking the “Help” button, I was involved.
Typically, when I was documenting a new application, I’d send my first draft to what we called “Subject Matter Experts” and ask them to review what I wrote. Our joint intention was to make sure everything I wrote was accurate and complete.
Usually this process worked. Sometimes however, I’d get comments back that were along the lines of:
“Huh?”
“Incomprehensible”
“Need to say more about ___”
The problem was although the reviewer clearly wanted me to change something, there weren’t enough details for me to take meaningful action.
In response, I began attaching a “reviewer cover sheet.” Among other elements, the sheet listed the types of comments that would help me the most. When I started doing this, it cut way down on the number of drafts that were required and the process went a lot faster (which was wonderful because we were always working on tight deadlines).
So what the heck does technical writing and subject matter expert reviews have to do with life in the Oasis?
Glad you asked!
One of the nicest benefits of being an Oasis member is getting support from the community. Often that support involves asking for input, suggestions, and advice.
And although all caring responses are good, responses that are specific to what is really wanted and needed are the most helpful.
To make the most of asking or and offering support, I encourage you to be specific about what you want from other members.
Specifics include things like:
- When you’d like input by (if you’re on a deadline)
- Type of support you’d like. For example, sometimes all we really need is to feel seen and empathized with. Other times we really want some detailed editorial help or we want someone to help us come up with just the right phrasing for a piece of marketing copy. Or perhaps you’re feeling really sensitive and you only want to her positive comments.
What’s most important is to take a moment to think about what 2-3 things would be most helpful to you in terms of feedback.
And if you’re contributing input and you’re not clear about what kind of support is being requested, go ahead and ask for what specific items would be most helpful in terms of input.
Specifying the kind of help you want is a way to strengthen your sense of sovereignty as a business owner. And sovereignty, the sense that you can truly be the ground for your customers and clients, is an important quality for any owner who wants their business to really thrive.
See you in the Tent,
Judy
What’s New Friday, August 20th:
Article: Six Sufi Teachings That Give Shelter in the Storm
You know, Heart of Business teachings are peppered with deep and provocative Sufi teachings. Read on for a concentrated dose . . . Please read this article and then come to the Tent to discuss.
Article: Squishy and Non-Squishy Love in Business
Did you know there is a difference between “squishy” and “non-squishy” love? Find out which one you want to lean into in your life and business. Please read this article and then come to the Tent to discuss.
Article: Why Speed Isn’t Good For You or Your Business
So much of the time we run as fast as we can feeling like the ground falls away behind each step with our businesses. Maybe trying to go faster just makes it worse sometimes. When is it okay to slow down? Please read this article and then come to the Tent to discuss.
Tutorial/FAQ
We are in the process of creating the Tutorial/FAQ section, so please ask your questions about how this new-fangled thing works here. Questions about this new Oasis and Tent?
Plus, there are a number of discussions already starting up in the Tent:
Throwing The Brainstorm Ball Around – Dating Site
Starting Over–Where To Start?
Will You Contribute To My Birthday Gift?
Newsletter Questions
You can see a list of all the most recent discussions here.
We have lots more planned coming up, see keep your eyes peeled over the next few weeks. And, if you need something, give a holler! We’re here to help and make it easy for you.
Until next Friday, see you in The Tent.
