9. Delete old files off the computer.
10. Take an electronic "coffeebreak" with another indexer or business friend (stay off the phone!).
11. Research information on a prospective client.
12. Read (not fiction novels!).
13. Try out various business names with some logos.
14. Commit parts of an editing checklist to memory.
15. Drink a glass of water.
16. Take some vitamins.
17. Brush your teeth (or other personal hygiene!).
18. Hug your kids, spouse, significant other, parents, or pet. If you have nothing living to hug, then hug your computer, pillow, or other inanimate object.
INDEXING ISSUES
19. Join ASI.
20. Join or start a local ASI chapter or group.
21. Subscribe to trade periodicals. The Indexer isn't included in the base cost of ASI membership. It's extra. Also, subscribe to and read the newsletters of the various ASI chapters and groups.
22. Look up older articles in Keywords or The Indexer that discuss what you want to know. Request copies of the articles from ASI.
23. Go to local chapter/group meetings, and go to the national ASI conventions.
24. Develop a Quality Control process for projects. This is a step-by-step procedure that includes what some indexers call "vetting." However, vetting is done when an indexer receives the proofs. You need to continue on with a step-by-step procedure through to project completion.
This is critical in case you get sick. An assistant (a friend chipping in, a recruited spouse or child) can read and complete some of the steps to help you. No real training is required for their assistance. They just need reading skills, if you have done a thorough job in writing out the procedures for completing an index.
Many companies write up procedural manuals for all tasks because of today's turnover in employees. It helps them be more efficient because it eliminates the need for "reinventing the wheel." Your company shouldn't be any different. You may think you are the only employee, but this manual can help in times of crises, and for things you do only once in a while. And be sure your company procedural manual has an index!
25. Purchase and read other indexing books. There are many of them. You are reading Mulvany's book as part of the USDA class, but there are many others. The other publications approach indexing in a different manner. Round out your indexing education.
26. If you can't purchase other indexing books, then go to the library for an interlibrary loan. Or request the library to purchase the books for you.
Go To Page: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
