Working Well with Others


Dear Real Academics,

This week I wanted to reflect on some practical points I've learned about working with clients seeking assistance with  academic writing and research. Even if you don't have "clients," I think these tips are helpful in working with other academics/people in general, be it peers or students.

(1) Be prompt and organized in your communications.
People feel more secure when they know they are being heard and recognized and that you have some plan in place. Waiting over a week (or even months -- yes, this has happened to me) for someone to reply to an email request or text may signal that the non-responder simply does not care.

(2) Be grateful.
It takes a lot of guts to share writing and/or research with someone. Make sure to thank anyone for trusting you with their writing and/or research. And, be grateful that you have something you can share. It is truly a privilege -- at least it is for me -- to teach someone something that I've learned from great mentors before me and from lots of personal practice.

(3) Be quick to admit your faults when you are aware/someone brings it to your attention.
Should something not work out, be quick to admit your fault. I've heard people in academia say to never say you are sorry. I disagree. It is important to take ownership when I mess up (and we ALL do). But, what if the other person does not respond well when I apologize? Then, that's on THEM. At least I did my part. Breathe and move on!

If I'm honest, I wish that I had more professors who displayed the above. I am grateful for the few that did. 

I also understand what it is to be a professor and to have the pressures of conducting research, publishing, and writing/winning/managing grants and trying to get tenure and move up the academic ladder (but, really, may I just interject that none of this leads to any lasting fulfillment?). 

Academic (or other) pressures are no excuse for poor communication, ingratitude, or pride that hurts others. On the flip side, as a student or newer academic, it is important to be respectful and also display the above characteristics. And, from all sides, let's admit none of us are perfect and let's practice exhibiting grace.

Do you or does someone you know need assistance with academic writing and research? We, at Real Academics, would love to help out! Drop us a line anytime through our website: www.therealacademics.com. Tiberio and I are currently servicing some incredible and motivated clients in journal writing, general academic writing, and statistical analysis, and would love to have you onboard as well. 

Until next time, happy writing!

Maggie

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