How to Win Over Management and SMEs: A Hilarious Guide for Technical Authors

So, you’ve embarked on the noble quest of a technical author. Your mission, should you accept it (and you have no choice), is to convert the mighty management and the enigmatic SMEs (Subject Matter Experts) to your way of thinking. Sounds like a Herculean task? Fear not! Here’s your humorous guide to charming them into submission while keeping your sanity intact. Remember, we’re all in this together, united by the common goal of effective communication. So how to Win Over Management and SMEs to your way of thinking.

Speak Their Language (No, Not Klingon)

Let’s be honest—management speaks in KPIs and ROI, while SMEs converse in an ancient dialect known only to a few. Your first step is to become a polyglot. Learn to weave your documentation magic into business objectives and arcane technical details. It’s like being a translator at the United Nations but with less chance of starting an international incident.

The Art of Presentation: Smoke and Mirrors

With communication, clarity icriticaley. But why stop there? Make your points with the flair of a Las Vegas magician. Use charts, graphs, and infographics that sparkle. And remember, nothing says “I know what I’m talking about” like a well-timed meme. Trust me; pie charts are irresistible to management as cat videos are to the internet. Please don’t overdo it, or you will end up in a meme yourself!

Quick Wins: The Fast and the Furious

Management loves results faster than a pizza delivery. And who’s the hero delivering those results? You, the technical author. Identify accessible opportunities and deliver those quick wins like Vin Diesel in a muscle car. A tiny tweak will save an hour of work each week or a new tool that doesn’t require a PhD. Shout about those victories with the enthusiasm of a game show host handing out prizes. You’re the star of this show.

Collaboration: Herding Cats, but With Treats

Getting management and SMEs to work together is like herding cats, but don’t worry—we have treats! Engage them early with workshops that are part of brainstorming and therapy sessions. Provide plenty of coffee and snacks; they’re more likely to engage if their blood sugar levels are stable. Plus, who argues over a cookie?

Build Relationships: Be the Office Barista

Relationships are everything. Become the office barista—always ready with a listening ear and coffee. Trust and rapport are your best friends. Remember, it’s harder to say no to someone who knows your coffee order by heart.

Highlight Long-term Benefits: The Crystal Ball Approach

Paint a picture of a future so bright they’ll need shades. Highlight how your approach will lead to fewer headaches, lower costs, and maybe even a tropical vacation (we can dream). Show them the long-term benefits with the enthusiasm of a late-night infomercial host. “But wait, there’s more! If you adopt this strategy now, you’ll also get…”

Embrace Technology: The Cool Kid in School

Introduce new tools and technologies like you’re showing off the latest gadget. Be the cool kid who knows all the shortcuts and secret features. Offer training sessions, but make them fun—think less “seminar” and more “techno party.” Bonus points if you can throw in a few tech-related jokes. “Why do programmers prefer dark mode? Because light attracts bugs!”

Example Scenarios:

• • • Scenario 1: Management Concerned About Cost: “Dear Management, investing in this new tool is like buying a golden goose. It’s pricey upfront, but think of the endless eggs. In financial terms, that means reduced time, fewer errors, and overall productivity that will make our competitors weep.”
    • Scenario 2: SME Resistance to Change: “Dear SMEs, we know you love your ancient rituals, but imagine a world where documentation is a breeze. Join our workshop—there will be snacks!—and let’s create a workflow so smooth, you’ll forget what life was like before.”

Ultimately, winning over management and SMEs is about strategy, charm, and humour. So, arm yourself with these tips and spread the word about the importance of good documentation. Keep in mind that these strategies have been tried and tested. If all else fails, remember that bribery with baked goods is always an option. With these tools, success is inevitable.