http://worldcat.org/entity/work/id/1744111

Personality and English in Technical Personnel

"When a young man (or woman) applies for a job, the employer observes carefully the personality of the applicant and his use of English. Often the applicant's use of language is an indication of his character. Personality and use of language are closely linked; each usually resembles the other. Most of the many mistakes made in applying for a job can be traced back to faults in personality or in the use of language to express ideas. Unfortunately many a promising applicant who looks satisfactory at first sight proceeds to do or say the wrong things. Perhaps he is really a first-class worker, yet he may make a poor impression through ignorance of what to say. Even if he is engaged for the job, he may later antagonize his superiors by thoughtless actions or careless word's. Young people today need advice about personal faults and the use of English. For some reason, technical workers are apt to make a less favorable impression than they should when applying for a job. Many of them have not learned to put their best foot forward. They assume that technical skill alone will carry them along. But much greater progress can be made by giving proper attention to the improvement of personality and to a more intelligent use of language. With a few suggestions, the average youth can conduct himself to much better advantage. Technical men too often neglect to consider human nature and the importance of a general education. A more balanced background should be encouraged. If necessary, self-education should correct wrong tendencies and a one-sided preparation for life. The narrow type of specialist should do a little spying on himself and become a sort of detective. Strange to say, the typical technician is not a very good detective at self-analysis. There is no reason why he should not improve his ability at this. This book offers helpful suggestions for such a study. It criticizes pointedly and constructively. Such advice is widely and badly needed, as many employers will agree"--Foreword. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2014 APA, all rights reserved).

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