INTERMEDIATE LEVEL

How do you handle feedback and suggestions from subject matter experts on your technical writing?

Sample answer to the question

When it comes to handling feedback and suggestions from subject matter experts on my technical writing, I approach it with an open mind and a desire to continuously improve. I actively seek feedback and welcome suggestions from subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and clarity in my documentation. I take their suggestions into consideration and carefully evaluate them before implementing any changes. I also believe in effective communication and collaboration, so I make sure to have open conversations with subject matter experts to gain a deeper understanding of their expertise and align my writing with their expectations.

A more solid answer

As a technical writer, I understand the importance of incorporating feedback and suggestions from subject matter experts into my work. When I receive feedback, I start by carefully reviewing the suggestions and considering their validity and relevance. I actively seek clarification from the subject matter experts to gain a deeper understanding of their perspective and ensure that I address their concerns effectively. I then analyze the feedback in relation to the overall goal of the documentation project and make informed decisions about incorporating the suggestions. To improve collaboration and facilitate effective communication with subject matter experts, I schedule regular meetings or follow-ups to discuss their feedback and clarify any doubts. By incorporating feedback from subject matter experts, I am able to enhance the accuracy, clarity, and comprehensiveness of my technical writing.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more detail on how the candidate handles feedback and suggestions, including steps taken to evaluate the suggestions and the importance of effective communication and collaboration. It also highlights the candidate's ability to analyze feedback in relation to the project goals and make informed decisions. However, it could further improve by providing specific examples or instances where the candidate successfully incorporated feedback from subject matter experts.

An exceptional answer

Handling feedback and suggestions from subject matter experts is an essential part of my technical writing process. When I receive feedback, I approach it with a growth mindset and view it as an opportunity to refine and improve my work. I actively seek feedback from subject matter experts by proactively reaching out to them and inviting their insights. I listen attentively to their suggestions and ask clarifying questions to ensure a thorough understanding of their perspective. To incorporate their feedback effectively, I utilize a systematic approach. I categorize the feedback based on its significance and prioritize the most impactful changes. I then revise the documentation while maintaining a cohesive narrative and applying the subject matter experts' recommendations. To ensure collaboration and alignment, I schedule regular meetings or provide progress updates to keep subject matter experts involved in the process. By embracing feedback and leveraging subject matter experts' knowledge, I continually enhance the quality and accuracy of my technical writing.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates a growth mindset and proactively seeking feedback from subject matter experts. It showcases a systematic approach to handling feedback and incorporates subject matter experts' recommendations while maintaining a cohesive narrative. The answer also highlights the candidate's emphasis on collaboration and involvement of subject matter experts throughout the process. The answer could be further improved by sharing specific examples of instances where the candidate successfully incorporated subject matter experts' feedback and the impact it had on the final documentation.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with documentation and publishing tools, such as Markdown, Adobe FrameMaker, or MadCap Flare.
Develop a strong understanding of technical concepts and jargon relevant to the job.
Practice active listening and asking clarifying questions to ensure a thorough understanding of subject matter experts' perspectives.
Demonstrate your ability to prioritize and implement feedback by showcasing past instances where you successfully incorporated suggestions from subject matter experts.
Highlight your collaboration and communication skills in relation to working with subject matter experts.