1. Who is the audience and what are the purposes of the brochure?
The audience is the Texas Tech student body and to try to get them involved in campus activities and help represent others students on campus.
2. What the designers have done well in terms of four designing principles of Robin Williams in our textbook (p.258-59): Proximity, Alignment, Repetition, and Contrast?
Proximity – grouping related items together
Alignment – place text and graphics on the page so that the reader can understand the relationships between the elements. This was done well through out the brochures.
Repetition – treat the same kind of information in the same way to
Contrast – They did do contrast well with the white background and the black and red letters.
3. What the designers have not done well in terms of the above four designing principles? Have bad photographs, needs more outlining, colors are faded, use less words because it looks cluttered.
4. Can you give some redesigning recommendations for the brochures? Try to use even less words. Use different fonts and the type of paper. It looks amateur. Maybe place the pictures in a different spot, use bullets,
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Monday, February 25, 2008
Class Activity 10
Memo
Date: February 25, 2008
To: classmates
From: Lindsey Burns
Subject: American Business letter vs a Japan Business Letter
The purpose of this memo is to inform my classmates, about American Business letters vs writing a business letter from Japan.
Summary:
This memo is to educate my classmates about (1) writing effective American and Japan Business letters and (2) to show the difference in writing each of these letters.
Discussion:
There is a difference in the salutation (the “Dear…” part of the letter) which reflects a cultural difference. The American letter has Dear Mr. Henryson vs the Japan letter has Dear Sir. The American letter states the name of the person the letter is being addressed to where as in the Japan letter is more respectful and distant just putting dear Sir.
The first paragraph does have a function beyond delaying the discussion of the business. It lets those in Japan know that the American letter shows that they care about their family since family is such a big part of ones daily life. Family can also help in the building process of ones education and career.
The function of telling Mr. Kirisawa about his own company is to allow the reader get to know a little bit about him so the reader will have an idea of what the person and their company is like since they can’t just go out and meet for a cup of coffee or lunch.
This paragraph helps the writer introduce her own company’s product directly.
To a reader from the United States, the third paragraph would probably seem thin. The aspect of Japanese culture makes it effective in the context of this letter. The aspect is group loyalty and an ideology. They don’t need to elaborate.
The writer doesn’t make a more explicit sales pitch at the end of the letter because they don’t want to seem pushy and forceful.
Conclusion:
In conclusion the format and writing style in writing an American business letter vs the format and writing style of writing a business letter from Japan entail very different writing styles and formats. The American Business letter is more formal than the Japan business letter.
Date: February 25, 2008
To: classmates
From: Lindsey Burns
Subject: American Business letter vs a Japan Business Letter
The purpose of this memo is to inform my classmates, about American Business letters vs writing a business letter from Japan.
Summary:
This memo is to educate my classmates about (1) writing effective American and Japan Business letters and (2) to show the difference in writing each of these letters.
Discussion:
There is a difference in the salutation (the “Dear…” part of the letter) which reflects a cultural difference. The American letter has Dear Mr. Henryson vs the Japan letter has Dear Sir. The American letter states the name of the person the letter is being addressed to where as in the Japan letter is more respectful and distant just putting dear Sir.
The first paragraph does have a function beyond delaying the discussion of the business. It lets those in Japan know that the American letter shows that they care about their family since family is such a big part of ones daily life. Family can also help in the building process of ones education and career.
The function of telling Mr. Kirisawa about his own company is to allow the reader get to know a little bit about him so the reader will have an idea of what the person and their company is like since they can’t just go out and meet for a cup of coffee or lunch.
This paragraph helps the writer introduce her own company’s product directly.
To a reader from the United States, the third paragraph would probably seem thin. The aspect of Japanese culture makes it effective in the context of this letter. The aspect is group loyalty and an ideology. They don’t need to elaborate.
The writer doesn’t make a more explicit sales pitch at the end of the letter because they don’t want to seem pushy and forceful.
Conclusion:
In conclusion the format and writing style in writing an American business letter vs the format and writing style of writing a business letter from Japan entail very different writing styles and formats. The American Business letter is more formal than the Japan business letter.
Sunday, February 24, 2008
Assignment Reflection 2
The English 2311 Assignment number two; writing a business letter and memo, called for various situations and types of letters that were being written.
How I chose to approach Scenario #1 (effective business letter writing), where I am the manager of CompUSA and received a following letter message from a unsatisfied customer, and wrote an adjustment letter to Buck Wheat either accepting or rejecting the request. First I considered how I would feel if I were the customer and this happened to me. Then I put myself in the manager’s position. From my previous work experience I decided what would be the best outcome and that was to accept the customers complaint and send them the software. This is because the advertisement did say that the software was included. My tone approach was to sympathize with the customer and assure them that it would not happen again.
How I chose to approach Scenario #2 (effective memo writing), where I am Assistant Personnel Manager, and have been given the task of communicating Lily's displeasure to my colleagues. In addition, I was asked to come up with some kind of plan that will slow the number of personal copies made on the photocopy machine. So, I have to come up with a brief, feasible plan for curbing personal copy-making and communicate it through a 1-page memo to my colleagues. My tone was to be professional and assertive to clearly show the employees that this is a problem and needed to be fixed immediately. I wanted to give the employees all the information because I know I like to know what is going on if there is a change in my work environment.
Summarizing and reflecting on this assignments genres and how I organized my content
to target each communication situation was mainly keeping in mind my audience and purpose when I established the tone of my responses in both the business letter and memo. I felt that the memo was a little limiting in conveying my ideas but that’s why the memo is supposed to be short.
The purpose of this assignment was to give me practice in writing letters, memos, and e-mails. I will encounter these three genres frequently in the workplace. The course goals on the course website I felt I encountered in completing this assignment were analyzing communication contexts rhetorically by understanding audiences, purposes, and situations, creating technical documents that solve problems and improve situations through communication, and analyzing and applying the ethical responsibilities involved in technical communication;
How I chose to approach Scenario #1 (effective business letter writing), where I am the manager of CompUSA and received a following letter message from a unsatisfied customer, and wrote an adjustment letter to Buck Wheat either accepting or rejecting the request. First I considered how I would feel if I were the customer and this happened to me. Then I put myself in the manager’s position. From my previous work experience I decided what would be the best outcome and that was to accept the customers complaint and send them the software. This is because the advertisement did say that the software was included. My tone approach was to sympathize with the customer and assure them that it would not happen again.
How I chose to approach Scenario #2 (effective memo writing), where I am Assistant Personnel Manager, and have been given the task of communicating Lily's displeasure to my colleagues. In addition, I was asked to come up with some kind of plan that will slow the number of personal copies made on the photocopy machine. So, I have to come up with a brief, feasible plan for curbing personal copy-making and communicate it through a 1-page memo to my colleagues. My tone was to be professional and assertive to clearly show the employees that this is a problem and needed to be fixed immediately. I wanted to give the employees all the information because I know I like to know what is going on if there is a change in my work environment.
Summarizing and reflecting on this assignments genres and how I organized my content
to target each communication situation was mainly keeping in mind my audience and purpose when I established the tone of my responses in both the business letter and memo. I felt that the memo was a little limiting in conveying my ideas but that’s why the memo is supposed to be short.
The purpose of this assignment was to give me practice in writing letters, memos, and e-mails. I will encounter these three genres frequently in the workplace. The course goals on the course website I felt I encountered in completing this assignment were analyzing communication contexts rhetorically by understanding audiences, purposes, and situations, creating technical documents that solve problems and improve situations through communication, and analyzing and applying the ethical responsibilities involved in technical communication;
English Assignment #2 - Memo
Memo
Date: February 27, 2008
To: Colleagues
From: Lindsey Burns
Subject: Over usage of the companys copy machine for personal copies.
The purpose of this memo is to alert all employees that the budget for the copy machine is several hundred dollars over budget and the solution to this problem.
Summary:
This memo is to alert employees that (1) the budget to the copy machine is way over the companys budget and (2) describes the solution for employees to fix this problem.
Discussion:
Lilly Ponds, the personal manager, has repeatedly told all employees of the Koller Construction Company to stop using the copy machine for personal use. This has lead to the copy machine budget consistently being over budget by several hundred dollars.
Lilly has asked me to formally inform all employees of the problem at hand and to come up with a brief, feasible plan that will slow the number of personal copies made on the photocopying machine. The plan I have come up with is that everyone will get a personal number that they enter in order to run the copy machine. Everyone will a have the same number of copies that they will be allowed each month. At the end of the month I will get a print out from the copy machine with your number and the number of copies you have made. If you are over your number, that amount will come out of your pay check.
Conclusion:
In conclusion due to the copying machine budget being over budget by several hundred dollars a new plan has been implemented to try to solve this problem. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or other possible ideas to fix this problem.
Date: February 27, 2008
To: Colleagues
From: Lindsey Burns
Subject: Over usage of the companys copy machine for personal copies.
The purpose of this memo is to alert all employees that the budget for the copy machine is several hundred dollars over budget and the solution to this problem.
Summary:
This memo is to alert employees that (1) the budget to the copy machine is way over the companys budget and (2) describes the solution for employees to fix this problem.
Discussion:
Lilly Ponds, the personal manager, has repeatedly told all employees of the Koller Construction Company to stop using the copy machine for personal use. This has lead to the copy machine budget consistently being over budget by several hundred dollars.
Lilly has asked me to formally inform all employees of the problem at hand and to come up with a brief, feasible plan that will slow the number of personal copies made on the photocopying machine. The plan I have come up with is that everyone will get a personal number that they enter in order to run the copy machine. Everyone will a have the same number of copies that they will be allowed each month. At the end of the month I will get a print out from the copy machine with your number and the number of copies you have made. If you are over your number, that amount will come out of your pay check.
Conclusion:
In conclusion due to the copying machine budget being over budget by several hundred dollars a new plan has been implemented to try to solve this problem. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or other possible ideas to fix this problem.
Friday, February 22, 2008
Assignment #2 Business Letter
3451 Broken Bow Ln.
Denton, Texas 79401
(417) 558- 8442
www.CompUSA.com
February 27, 2008
Mr. Buck Wheat
1356 Jefferson Rd.
Clover, TX 79402
Dear Mr. Wheat:
I apologize for the mistake we have made with your computer order here at CompUSA. I received your letter message regarding the computer you purchased recently without the software promised with the product and decided to accept your request about sending you the software.
I accept your request to send you the proper software to upload to your newly purchased computer. This problem might have occurred due to the all the new software we have ordered and gotten and have had to up load to all the computers we already have along with all the new ones we have recently received. All the old computers and all the new computer might have gotten mixed up with ones that have been uploaded with the ones that have not been uploaded.
Your computer along with the other computers that were advertised will be uploaded with the software that was promised to come with the product in the advertisement. We apologize for the inconvenience and time that this has caused you. I appreciate your feedback and will work harder to make sure that this does not happen again. I hope you will continue your business with us again.
Yours Truly,
Lindsey Burns, Manager
Encl: Software to upgrade your computer.
Denton, Texas 79401
(417) 558- 8442
www.CompUSA.com
February 27, 2008
Mr. Buck Wheat
1356 Jefferson Rd.
Clover, TX 79402
Dear Mr. Wheat:
I apologize for the mistake we have made with your computer order here at CompUSA. I received your letter message regarding the computer you purchased recently without the software promised with the product and decided to accept your request about sending you the software.
I accept your request to send you the proper software to upload to your newly purchased computer. This problem might have occurred due to the all the new software we have ordered and gotten and have had to up load to all the computers we already have along with all the new ones we have recently received. All the old computers and all the new computer might have gotten mixed up with ones that have been uploaded with the ones that have not been uploaded.
Your computer along with the other computers that were advertised will be uploaded with the software that was promised to come with the product in the advertisement. We apologize for the inconvenience and time that this has caused you. I appreciate your feedback and will work harder to make sure that this does not happen again. I hope you will continue your business with us again.
Yours Truly,
Lindsey Burns, Manager
Encl: Software to upgrade your computer.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Reading Response to "Business E-mail: Guidance for Users"
The advantages of an e-mail are that you can send your message more quickly than a written letter, more interactive than traditional writing and more permanent than traditional speaking. E-mail has more than one use, it can be used for casual communication, scheduling a meeting, expressing condolences, and the e-mail can serve as a record. It allows people to respond effectively by thinking their responses over making sure they are not offending anyone or responding mad. Leaves a paper trail.
Disadvantages of an e-mail is that a poorly written one can lead to longer time of period to read the e-mail due to a badly written e-mail that doesn’t communicate what the reader wanted to say. It is not in real time, is not face to face communication, which can be a good thing if you are avoiding the person. , does not ensure that the audience has gotten the e-mail you wrote, lacks privacy. Leaves a paper trail.
The structure of an e-mail: Select the distribution list before you write to make sure you are getting everyone’s perspectives communicated in the e-mail. Compose a proper subject line: use a verb is reader needs to take action to your e-mail. Makes sure the reader sees your message at the top of the first page by applying the top of the screen test.
1. Tell the reader what the message is about
2. State if any action is needed from the reader
3. Put the most important information first in the e-mail.
4. Forecast and number several points.
5. Write in small chunks
6. Use breaks in paragraphs for emphasis.
7. Double space between paragraphs
8. Routine e-mails need a conclusion
9. Use document design techniques; italics, bold face, indentation, adding headings typography available in all systems; lower care and caps
The writing style of an e-mail should suit the reader, the situation, and the type of message. It should be active rather than passive. Use politeness markers. Use informal idioms and jokes with caution so you don’t accidentally offend anyone.
What I think would be most useful things for you when writing your own business e-mail in the future after reading the article would be to make sure that the style, structure, and form is the correct ones with the kind of e-mail I am writing to send. Also to make sure that there are no careless mistakes of grammatical or spelling errors. Along with saving e-mail address from the e-mail instead of manually entering them in myself to avoid errors. Compose an effective first sentence with my topic and why I am replying.
Disadvantages of an e-mail is that a poorly written one can lead to longer time of period to read the e-mail due to a badly written e-mail that doesn’t communicate what the reader wanted to say. It is not in real time, is not face to face communication, which can be a good thing if you are avoiding the person. , does not ensure that the audience has gotten the e-mail you wrote, lacks privacy. Leaves a paper trail.
The structure of an e-mail: Select the distribution list before you write to make sure you are getting everyone’s perspectives communicated in the e-mail. Compose a proper subject line: use a verb is reader needs to take action to your e-mail. Makes sure the reader sees your message at the top of the first page by applying the top of the screen test.
1. Tell the reader what the message is about
2. State if any action is needed from the reader
3. Put the most important information first in the e-mail.
4. Forecast and number several points.
5. Write in small chunks
6. Use breaks in paragraphs for emphasis.
7. Double space between paragraphs
8. Routine e-mails need a conclusion
9. Use document design techniques; italics, bold face, indentation, adding headings typography available in all systems; lower care and caps
The writing style of an e-mail should suit the reader, the situation, and the type of message. It should be active rather than passive. Use politeness markers. Use informal idioms and jokes with caution so you don’t accidentally offend anyone.
What I think would be most useful things for you when writing your own business e-mail in the future after reading the article would be to make sure that the style, structure, and form is the correct ones with the kind of e-mail I am writing to send. Also to make sure that there are no careless mistakes of grammatical or spelling errors. Along with saving e-mail address from the e-mail instead of manually entering them in myself to avoid errors. Compose an effective first sentence with my topic and why I am replying.
Individual Memo Class Activity
1. What is the purpose of the ethics guidelines statement?
The purpose of the ethics guidelines statement is to give a basic outline of acceptable ethical behavior inside and outside of the classroom, and gives examples of how these values are to be applied
2. How specific and comprehensive is this statement?
The specificity and comprehensiveness of the statement is well put considering all the guidelines and examples there are following the statement.
3. Would you like to suggest adding more ethical codes into it based on your experience as a TTU student?
I do not have any ethical codes to suggest to be added based on my experiences as a TTU student
4. How effectively does the ethics guidelines statement demonstrate the Department's Philosophy ?
The effectiveness of the ethics guidelines statement demonstrating the Department Philosophy seems to skim the top. When I read the Department philosophy it really emphasized hoe the English department wasn’t to teach the student English so that they are not facing obstacles within the English field.
5. How effectively does the statement describe proper and improper behavior and practice for students? Please use at least three examples from the statement to support your analysis/answers.
The statement effectively describes the proper and improper behavior and practice for students
The three examples from the statement:
1. Responsibility; keep informed with regard to university policies and individual instructors’ policies and procedures—ignorance is not an excuse
2. Fairness; recognize that grades are earned, not given.
3. Respect; recognize and value the different talents, backgrounds, and beliefs of individual students and faculty. (I thought this was a really good one)
Memo
Date: February 18, 2008
To: Dr. Liu
From: Lindsey Burns
Subject: Responding to the readings on the Ethics Guidelines statement.
This memo discusses detail of the Ethics Guidelines for students entailing improper behavior and practice for students.
Summary: My readings of the Ethics Guidelines Statement is that it was very well thought out and written.
Discussion:
The Ethics Guidelines Statement was very well thought out because it goes over several characteristics that one should have as a student as well as an adult; clarity, honesty, tolerance, respect, objectivity, fairness, engagement, and responsibility.
Ethics Guidelines Statement was very well written because it gives three examples of each code to follow to clarify what each of the specific codes or behavior qualities each student should keep in mind as a student. If there were no examples then the readers of the statement would not have a clarified idea of what the entire statement means.
Conclusion: In conclusion the Ethics Guidelines for students is needed for proper functioning of the school campus.
The purpose of the ethics guidelines statement is to give a basic outline of acceptable ethical behavior inside and outside of the classroom, and gives examples of how these values are to be applied
2. How specific and comprehensive is this statement?
The specificity and comprehensiveness of the statement is well put considering all the guidelines and examples there are following the statement.
3. Would you like to suggest adding more ethical codes into it based on your experience as a TTU student?
I do not have any ethical codes to suggest to be added based on my experiences as a TTU student
4. How effectively does the ethics guidelines statement demonstrate the Department's Philosophy ?
The effectiveness of the ethics guidelines statement demonstrating the Department Philosophy seems to skim the top. When I read the Department philosophy it really emphasized hoe the English department wasn’t to teach the student English so that they are not facing obstacles within the English field.
5. How effectively does the statement describe proper and improper behavior and practice for students? Please use at least three examples from the statement to support your analysis/answers.
The statement effectively describes the proper and improper behavior and practice for students
The three examples from the statement:
1. Responsibility; keep informed with regard to university policies and individual instructors’ policies and procedures—ignorance is not an excuse
2. Fairness; recognize that grades are earned, not given.
3. Respect; recognize and value the different talents, backgrounds, and beliefs of individual students and faculty. (I thought this was a really good one)
Memo
Date: February 18, 2008
To: Dr. Liu
From: Lindsey Burns
Subject: Responding to the readings on the Ethics Guidelines statement.
This memo discusses detail of the Ethics Guidelines for students entailing improper behavior and practice for students.
Summary: My readings of the Ethics Guidelines Statement is that it was very well thought out and written.
Discussion:
The Ethics Guidelines Statement was very well thought out because it goes over several characteristics that one should have as a student as well as an adult; clarity, honesty, tolerance, respect, objectivity, fairness, engagement, and responsibility.
Ethics Guidelines Statement was very well written because it gives three examples of each code to follow to clarify what each of the specific codes or behavior qualities each student should keep in mind as a student. If there were no examples then the readers of the statement would not have a clarified idea of what the entire statement means.
Conclusion: In conclusion the Ethics Guidelines for students is needed for proper functioning of the school campus.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Class Activity 6
Memo
Date: February 13, 2008
To: Dr. Liu
From: Lindsey Burns
Rebecca Reed
Rosemary Novak
Subject: Strengths and weaknesses of the claim letter in Exercise 5 from our text book
This memo discusses detail of the strengths and weaknesses of the claim letter and adjustment letter in Exercise 5 in our text book.
Summary: Our discussion shows the claim letter displays an incorrect format and the tone is unprofessional.
Discussion:
The claim letter was unprofessional because it didn’t have the correct format or an appropriate level of formality of a claim letter. The writer shouldn’t have taped the fly on the letter, and he’s asking too many questions, he should just state what the problem is, the heading should be on the left side of the paper, and he addresses letter to just gentlemen should be to whom this may concern or something else because it may involve a female. The writer also should have included an introductory paragraph, and should have included a solution to the problem. We thought the return letter was professional.
Conclusion: In conclusion Seth Reeves should have revise and rewrite his claim letter.
Date: February 13, 2008
To: Dr. Liu
From: Lindsey Burns
Rebecca Reed
Rosemary Novak
Subject: Strengths and weaknesses of the claim letter in Exercise 5 from our text book
This memo discusses detail of the strengths and weaknesses of the claim letter and adjustment letter in Exercise 5 in our text book.
Summary: Our discussion shows the claim letter displays an incorrect format and the tone is unprofessional.
Discussion:
The claim letter was unprofessional because it didn’t have the correct format or an appropriate level of formality of a claim letter. The writer shouldn’t have taped the fly on the letter, and he’s asking too many questions, he should just state what the problem is, the heading should be on the left side of the paper, and he addresses letter to just gentlemen should be to whom this may concern or something else because it may involve a female. The writer also should have included an introductory paragraph, and should have included a solution to the problem. We thought the return letter was professional.
Conclusion: In conclusion Seth Reeves should have revise and rewrite his claim letter.
Monday, February 11, 2008
Class Activity #8
895 North Main Street
Container Company, OH 77024
February 11, 2008
2202 Mac Davis Ln, apt 611 C
Lubbock, Tx 79401
February 11, 2008
Dear Mrs. Gibson:
I received your letter regarding the leak in the container you bought.
I accept your request for sending you a new beverage container along with a check for $35 to cover your white table cloth.
The containers will be further tested to make sure that this does not happen to you or any one of our customers. Sorry for the faulty container. I hope you will continue your business with us again.
Sincerely,
Container Company
(409) 567- 5089
Encl: A brand new container and $35 check
Container Company, OH 77024
February 11, 2008
2202 Mac Davis Ln, apt 611 C
Lubbock, Tx 79401
February 11, 2008
Dear Mrs. Gibson:
I received your letter regarding the leak in the container you bought.
I accept your request for sending you a new beverage container along with a check for $35 to cover your white table cloth.
The containers will be further tested to make sure that this does not happen to you or any one of our customers. Sorry for the faulty container. I hope you will continue your business with us again.
Sincerely,
Container Company
(409) 567- 5089
Encl: A brand new container and $35 check
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Class activity 7
Lindsey Burns
2202 Mac Davis Ln
Lubbock, Tx 79401
713-560-1116
February 6, 2008
Manufacturer
Dear Manufacturer of the container company:
I recently purchased a beverage container from your company for $8.95 and brought it home safely. I filled it with grape juice I found that it has a serious leak.
This leak lead to the running of my $35 white tablecloth.
I think that you will see that we have a problem. I am sending back the faulty container to your company directly.
I would like you to compensate me for the cost of buying the faulty container and for the ruined table cloth. Totaling to $43.95. Another solution I see to the problem is to send a new container and only compensate me for $35 for the tablecloth.
Please contact me as soon as possible if you have further discussion about my situation.
Sincerely,
Lindsey Burns
2202 Mac Davis Ln
Lubbock, Tx 79401
713-560-1116
February 6, 2008
Manufacturer
Dear Manufacturer of the container company:
I recently purchased a beverage container from your company for $8.95 and brought it home safely. I filled it with grape juice I found that it has a serious leak.
This leak lead to the running of my $35 white tablecloth.
I think that you will see that we have a problem. I am sending back the faulty container to your company directly.
I would like you to compensate me for the cost of buying the faulty container and for the ruined table cloth. Totaling to $43.95. Another solution I see to the problem is to send a new container and only compensate me for $35 for the tablecloth.
Please contact me as soon as possible if you have further discussion about my situation.
Sincerely,
Lindsey Burns
Assignment Reflection
Lindsey Burns
ENGL 2311-003/008
Dr. Liu
February 6, 2008
Assignment Reflection
Reflecting on my work for this assignment of customizing a job letter and resume based on my current situation of how I constructed the resume and job letter to persuasively appeal to the targeted communication situation is that I read carefully through the job add. Then I customized and worded my resume and job letter to specifically what was mentioned in the job add. I also job advertising company to make sure I was addressing the letter to the right person and to get a feel of what the company is about.
The problems that I had in completing the assignment is that I am not all the way completed with my degree of Interior design and architecture so it was hard to find a job add that asked for little or no college education. I am also not out in the working world gaining working experience as one of the assets that is valuable on a resume and job letter. The search for a job add was relatively smooth since there are so many job search engines that once I am graduated with my degree I will have no problem applying for jobs.
The course goals I feel I encountered in completing this assignment were analyzing communication contexts rhetorically by understanding audiences, purposes, and situations. This applies in my current situation of my education level in the degree of job I could apply for. This goal also exemplifies the researching of the audience that would read the job letter and resume. Another goal that I feel I encountered is designing convincing and usable documents; which creating the layout and selling my information to potential employers. Overall I enjoyed and appreciated this assignment because it was good practice for the proper formatting and information to include and most importantly what not to include in writing two documents that will determine whether I will get a job interview or not.
ENGL 2311-003/008
Dr. Liu
February 6, 2008
Assignment Reflection
Reflecting on my work for this assignment of customizing a job letter and resume based on my current situation of how I constructed the resume and job letter to persuasively appeal to the targeted communication situation is that I read carefully through the job add. Then I customized and worded my resume and job letter to specifically what was mentioned in the job add. I also job advertising company to make sure I was addressing the letter to the right person and to get a feel of what the company is about.
The problems that I had in completing the assignment is that I am not all the way completed with my degree of Interior design and architecture so it was hard to find a job add that asked for little or no college education. I am also not out in the working world gaining working experience as one of the assets that is valuable on a resume and job letter. The search for a job add was relatively smooth since there are so many job search engines that once I am graduated with my degree I will have no problem applying for jobs.
The course goals I feel I encountered in completing this assignment were analyzing communication contexts rhetorically by understanding audiences, purposes, and situations. This applies in my current situation of my education level in the degree of job I could apply for. This goal also exemplifies the researching of the audience that would read the job letter and resume. Another goal that I feel I encountered is designing convincing and usable documents; which creating the layout and selling my information to potential employers. Overall I enjoyed and appreciated this assignment because it was good practice for the proper formatting and information to include and most importantly what not to include in writing two documents that will determine whether I will get a job interview or not.
Cover Letter
2202 Mac Davis Ln. Apt. 611C
Lubbock, TX 79401
713- 560-1116
Sweetie1473@aol.com
February 3, 2008
Mr. Goliath Staffelbach
Head of Staffelbach Design Assoc.
Staffelbach Design Associates
2525 Carlisle
Dallas, Texas 75201
Dear Mr. Staffelbach:
I recently came across the job opening for the position of Senior Project Designer to develop creative and functional design solutions. I would like to be considered for this position, and I hope that you find my experience thus far to be just what the job needs.
As you well know, Texas Tech is a FIDER accredited university and has a wonderful group of professors who share their knowledge of interior design concepts and principles to students not only for college work, but prepare myself to apply . The classes I have taken from Texas Tech have helped me to gain knowledge that I know would be useful and put to great use in this job position. My background in architecture as well as Communication and English classes only strengthens my background in interior design even further.
I have worked with S. Burns Design before, throughout my college career, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my experience. I learned not only how to incorporate the present items in a clients home, but I learned the importance of working towards what the client wants, while also incorporating what you know will look best. Working on the commercial side of the field helped me to realize that I would love working mainly in commercial or hospitality, perfect for your job opening.
I would love the chance to get to meet with and discuss my application. At your convenience, please feel free to call me at (713) 560-1116, or feel free to email me at Sweetie1473@aol.com. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
________________________
Lindsey D. Burns
Enclosure (1)
Lubbock, TX 79401
713- 560-1116
Sweetie1473@aol.com
February 3, 2008
Mr. Goliath Staffelbach
Head of Staffelbach Design Assoc.
Staffelbach Design Associates
2525 Carlisle
Dallas, Texas 75201
Dear Mr. Staffelbach:
I recently came across the job opening for the position of Senior Project Designer to develop creative and functional design solutions. I would like to be considered for this position, and I hope that you find my experience thus far to be just what the job needs.
As you well know, Texas Tech is a FIDER accredited university and has a wonderful group of professors who share their knowledge of interior design concepts and principles to students not only for college work, but prepare myself to apply . The classes I have taken from Texas Tech have helped me to gain knowledge that I know would be useful and put to great use in this job position. My background in architecture as well as Communication and English classes only strengthens my background in interior design even further.
I have worked with S. Burns Design before, throughout my college career, and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of my experience. I learned not only how to incorporate the present items in a clients home, but I learned the importance of working towards what the client wants, while also incorporating what you know will look best. Working on the commercial side of the field helped me to realize that I would love working mainly in commercial or hospitality, perfect for your job opening.
I would love the chance to get to meet with and discuss my application. At your convenience, please feel free to call me at (713) 560-1116, or feel free to email me at Sweetie1473@aol.com. Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
________________________
Lindsey D. Burns
Enclosure (1)
Resume
Lindsey Danielle Burns
2202 Mac Davis Ln. 611 CLubbock, TX 79401713-560-1116
Sweetie1473@aol.com
12111 Cobblestone DrHouston, TX 77024
Objective Position in interior design or architecture Education
B.S. Major: Interior Design. Minor: Architecture
Texas Tech University. Lubbock, TexasGPA: 3.6/4.0
Anticipated date of graduation: Spring 2009
Houston Christian High School: A Private College Preparatory School
GPA: 3.8/4.0
Skills
× Laboratory skills in Microsoft word, Excel, Access, and
PowerPoint software.
× Sketch Up/ CAD
× Written and oral communication
× Speak some Spanish
Experience
× Lifeguard at Pine Forest Country Club (June 1, 2004 to August 30,
2004)
× Certified in CPR and aquatics by Red Cross
× Hostess at Ciro’s Restaurant (March 31, 2002 to August 30, 2003)
Escorted restaurant patrons to their tables, booked reservations,
planned seating arrangements, met customers’ needs, and answered
telephone.
× Babysitting for neighbor Mr. And Mrs. Robert Rhode ( June 1, 2007
to August 30, 2007)
× Office clerical assistant for Dr. David Burns (June 1, 2006 to August
30, 2006) Proper filing of important medical records, postage, chart
preparation, and answered office phone.
Activities and Honors
Member of Delta Gamma Fraternity; attended weekly meetings and events, volunteer work, recruited new members, and in charge of proctoring study sessions.
× Member of Drug and Alcohol safety for campus council
× Member of Texas Tech club tennis team
× Tennis, racquetball, volleyball, camping, and playing the piano
Community Service
× National Charity League-Bayou City Chapter Newsletter Chairman (August 2003 to May 2004)
× National Charity League-Bayou City Chapter Historian (August 2002 to May 2003)
× Volunteer at The Briarwood School (June 2002, day counselor of 5 year old class)
× Volunteer at the Museum of Natural Science (April 2002, assisted with dinosaur exhibit)
David Burns
902 Frostwood Suite 302
Houston, Tx 77024
713-467-7704
Pine Forest Country Club Ciro’s Italian Grill
1803 Clay Rd. 1000 Cambell Rd Houston, Tx 77084-3909 Houston, Tx 77024
281-463-0900 713-467-7704
2202 Mac Davis Ln. 611 CLubbock, TX 79401713-560-1116
Sweetie1473@aol.com
12111 Cobblestone DrHouston, TX 77024
Objective Position in interior design or architecture Education
B.S. Major: Interior Design. Minor: Architecture
Texas Tech University. Lubbock, TexasGPA: 3.6/4.0
Anticipated date of graduation: Spring 2009
Houston Christian High School: A Private College Preparatory School
GPA: 3.8/4.0
Skills
× Laboratory skills in Microsoft word, Excel, Access, and
PowerPoint software.
× Sketch Up/ CAD
× Written and oral communication
× Speak some Spanish
Experience
× Lifeguard at Pine Forest Country Club (June 1, 2004 to August 30,
2004)
× Certified in CPR and aquatics by Red Cross
× Hostess at Ciro’s Restaurant (March 31, 2002 to August 30, 2003)
Escorted restaurant patrons to their tables, booked reservations,
planned seating arrangements, met customers’ needs, and answered
telephone.
× Babysitting for neighbor Mr. And Mrs. Robert Rhode ( June 1, 2007
to August 30, 2007)
× Office clerical assistant for Dr. David Burns (June 1, 2006 to August
30, 2006) Proper filing of important medical records, postage, chart
preparation, and answered office phone.
Activities and Honors
Member of Delta Gamma Fraternity; attended weekly meetings and events, volunteer work, recruited new members, and in charge of proctoring study sessions.
× Member of Drug and Alcohol safety for campus council
× Member of Texas Tech club tennis team
× Tennis, racquetball, volleyball, camping, and playing the piano
Community Service
× National Charity League-Bayou City Chapter Newsletter Chairman (August 2003 to May 2004)
× National Charity League-Bayou City Chapter Historian (August 2002 to May 2003)
× Volunteer at The Briarwood School (June 2002, day counselor of 5 year old class)
× Volunteer at the Museum of Natural Science (April 2002, assisted with dinosaur exhibit)
David Burns
902 Frostwood Suite 302
Houston, Tx 77024
713-467-7704
Pine Forest Country Club Ciro’s Italian Grill
1803 Clay Rd. 1000 Cambell Rd Houston, Tx 77084-3909 Houston, Tx 77024
281-463-0900 713-467-7704
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