1. Comprehension skills.
2. Pattern recognition.
3. Language command.
4. Keyboarding speed .
5. Strong memory.
6. Instant recall.
7. Computer skills, both hardware and software.
8. Problem-solving skills.
9. Subject familiarity.
10. Physical capability.
11. Family situation and lifestyle preferences.
12. Research skills.
So let's move on.
13. COMMUNICATION SKILLS. The more time it takes for you and the editor to communicate about what they want done, or how they want the index to look, the less time there is for indexing.
Of course, it can be argued that it takes communication skills on "both sides", both the indexer and editor.
While this is true, we're not concerned about the editor right now. We're looking only at ourselves. And you probably feel your communication skills are quite adequate--because everyone feels that way! We look at people and think, "We're OK, but YOU need some work."
A good indication of your communication skills can be found in your dealings with everyone around you.
Do you have to explain something over and over, because someone else doesn't "get" it? Have you ever considered that they don't "get" it because you're not able to communicate the information to them in a way they need it communicated? A good communicator understands how people need things communicated, and is able to adjust how they explain things.
Do people always misunderstand what you mean, especially if there are several people who heard you, or read what you wrote? Do you find yourself saying, "That's not what I meant!" Or, "You misunderstood." However, if several people misunderstood the exact same point, then our communication skills are lacking.
Are people always asking you to clarify things? Do you always need people to clarify things for you? If everyone around you understood, and you didn't, hmmm.... the problem might not be the other person. It might be you.
These are just some ways to evaluate our own communication skills, both our ability to give or transmit information, and our ability to receive or understand information.
Hmmm... we might find: "They're OK, but I need some work."
This isn't just verbal communications, but also written communications.
A lot of time can be wasted because of poor communication skills. Speed is lost if we're constantly clarifying what we've written or said to editors.
14. NAIL LENGTH. Now, granted, this is not an issue for a lot of indexers. But, it can be. It is for ME!
I've gone to the same nail technician for 9 years. She knows what I do for a living. And, she's
