My son is filling out a job application, and he called me to ask what this means, “Do you have computer experience? If yes, explain.” To his 19-year-old mind, this was a trick question. It’s like asking if he’s used crayons and ink pens. We both laughed as I tried to figure out with him how to answer it. Using a computer is so ingrained in who he is and how he works, that it’s hard for him to put into words what that means to someone else.

How should someone answer that question when they’ve used a computer since preschool? We decided to just say he’s proficient with each software program he thought would be relevant.

The meaning of this story to me is that the question isn’t “Do you have computer experience?” but “What computer experience do you have?” And then it’s to list relevant experience so as not to go on forever. It’s hard to imagine not at least knowing how to use basic Word and email for anyone who grew up in the ’90s.

Look at your own marketing materials. Are they outdated?  Do they ask questions that make sense to younger hires or those not familiar with your corporate jargon?  When we read our own writing, we often see what we expect, so get fresh eyes on yours and see what you discover.

- Sonya (sbeckley@labov.com)