Linda Mikkelsen: Questions & Answers
Linda Mikkelsen
Nominating Committee Questions & Candidate Answers | Member Questions & Candidate Answers
Provide an example of a time when you had to keep from speaking or making a decision because you did not have enough information.
Throughout my tenure as president of STC Twin Cities, I chose to defer decisions or not speak whenever I felt that I did not have complete information. I created a “next meeting issues” list that required research prior to our next council meeting. Each meeting, we chose to address those issues first and then move to other business. This strategy serves me well even now, especially when answering member questions about Society direction and recent decisions. If I don’t know the specific answer to a question, I feel free to say, “Let me gather some more information and get back to you about that.” People respect that and know they will get an answer that is correct and reasoned.
Describe a decision that you made within the last year that you are very proud of.
Within the last year, I chose to stop working nights and weekends so that I could spend more time with my family and friends. I have enjoyed better mental and physical health as a result. It also requires me to be more organized and focused during my work day, knowing I will “hang it up” at the end of the day. As a remote worker who works out of my home, I feel that this is a very positive and self-empowering decision; it is far too easy to become a slave to my computer morning, noon, and night!
Why does this position interest you?
The Nominating Committee fills an important role in putting forth qualified candidates for election to Society offices. The STC is at a critical stage now—we need highly qualified, articulate leaders more than ever – and I want to be a part of determining the future direction of the Society by helping find and screen those leadership candidates. My focus on interpersonal communication, my ability to be rational and non-emotional, and my dedication to STC will all help me perform Nominating Committee duties. I want to serve the Society to give back something in return for all the things STC has brought me; friends, leadership skills, and growth as a technical communicator.
What attracts you to our organization? What can you tell us about our organization?
STC attracts me because of the people. I love the variety of jobs we do, the endless change we cope with, and the boundless energy I find when I attend STC events. I love the networks I build through STC. I count people all over the world as friends because of STC.
Our organization is one that is sometimes slow to keep pace with changes around us. When we do move, however, watch out and pay attention, because change comes rapidly! (Unnerving to some, energizing to me.)
Our organization can make a difference to all of our professional lives. The best example I can think of is the recent redefinition of “technical communicator.
Our organization presents endless opportunities for growth for its members through networking, education, and leadership.
What are your personal reasons for wanting to serve on the STC nominating committee?
I want to serve on the STC nominating committee to see the workings of the Society first hand. I really respect and admire our current leadership and want to support them during these trying times. Serving on the committee is one way I can do that. I have served the STC Twin Cities community in many ways, and I’d like to expand my horizons a bit.
Linda Mikkelsen
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