How to Thrive as the Non-Techie in a Technical Enterprise

Many technical firms have people on staff who handle the non-technical end of the business--the accounting, the human resources issues and the administrative tasks. It is not uncommon for those techie types to develop a sense of superiority (however misplaced) over their non-techie colleagues. Don't let them get you down.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Be very clear in your own mind about your value to the firm. You are there because you have skills the techies lack.

2. Do not be intimidated by technical talk. In fact, embrace it; ask them to explain what they're talking about in layman's terms. Challenge them.

3. Demonstrate your talents openly. Show them that you are very good at what you do, and what's more, they are incapable of doing what you do.

4. Do not take any grief. If you are a liberal arts type, you have a toolbox that techies cannot imagine. Use your skills with language and critical analysis to make a place for yourself.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not question your own ability.