Interview Memorandum

Workplace Writing, Inc.

MEMORANDUM

To:                Linda Lein, ATCC Liberal Arts English Instructor

From:                Damon Burkel, ATCC Technical Writing Student

Date:                January 24, 2017

Subject:        Interview with Trooper Alex Arnsdorf of the Minnesota State Patrol

As you requested, I interviewed Alex Arnsdorf, Trooper with the Minnesota State Patrol. We discussed the writing process involved in his position. It is clear that writing, in or out of the squad car, is an important and large part of Mr. Arnsdorf’s job as a Trooper.

Types of Communications and Readers

The types of communications include, but are not limited to, the following: crash reports, DUI reports, incident reports, property damage reports, documents, evaluations, direct messages, and emails. The potential readers of the correspondence vary from judges and prosecutors, victims, the general public to staff and administration, and even the Colonel of the Patrol.

The Writing Process

As a Minnesota State Trooper uses all steps of the writing process for different communications. All forms of communication, including e-mails, require drafting and revising before the final draft is completed and sent. In workplace writing, it is important to be concise and clear in all communications. According to Trooper Arnsdorf, his job is to make give the courts the most accurate information possible. The content and context of communications are vital to providing readers with accurate and understandable information.