It has been said that mechanics, in general, are not communicators. We are introverts and that serves us well — because after all — we need to concentrate on the tasks at hand.
My personal experience is that this is at best, a generalization! Like with any group of people, there are those that would rather keep to themselves, and those that are very extroverted and like to express their opinions. Mechanics are like any other group of individuals — mixed and varied personalities expressing themselves in a multitude of ways.
I have proven this to myself time and time again when surrounded by groups of mechanics either while working in maintenance facilities, or when visiting maintenance shops in conjunction with my publication duties. All I need to do is ask a simple question like, “What do you think of X,” and believe me, the extroverts come out of the woodwork. I can be sure that I will get opinions of all types and flavors related to practically any subject.
And mechanics are proud of the work they do! Each time an aircraft/engine/component leaves our facility, we know that what we’ve done is worthy of the trust of people who utilize our aviation transportation system.
So why have we inherited the reputation of being introverts? It could be we have not been given many platforms or forums with which to share ideas, express frustrations, communicate important matters, or otherwise just sound off about our work. The work that we do requires concentration — so you don’t see a great deal of social activities in the hangar (thank goodness). But take us out of that environment, and we can be very outspoken.
AMT magazine is now offering to take you to a place where you can freely express yourself, communicate important ideas, and just sound off about whatever you like — good, bad, or otherwise!
The place: AMT Forums (http://forums.amtonline.com/).
With more than 100 registered users (and climbing fast) of AMT Forums, there are interesting, valuable, and informing discussions already taking place amongst your peers! Subjects currently being discussed and debated include: Outsourcing, tool tips, regulatory discussions, malfunction and defect reports, and more.
Consider this your official invitation to weigh in on these topics, and perhaps add a few of your own.
But before you go, here are a few tips of how to effectively communicate with your peers in the forums:
- Take your time — research or study the information you’re providing to make sure it is as accurate as possible.
- Choose a forum or chat room that’s in your area of expertise or passion — your comments will have more impact if you are knowledgeable or passionate about a topic.
- Be honest and truthful. Don’t misrepresent yourself. It’s only going to hurt you in the long run when and if you get to know the person with whom you are communicating.
- Try to write how you would speak in a face-to-face meeting. Be polite and respectful, even if you disagree — just like you’d want to be treated. If you are wrong or don’t know something, say so. It’s refreshing to chat with someone who doesn’t act like a know-it-all.
Most of all, have fun. See you at the AMTonline Forums!
