John Bruce

2 February 2016
Dr. Laurie Pinkert
ENC 3250

Genre Analysis Interview:

Subject: Anthony R. Bruce, Contracts Manager, Harris

In the time youve spent in your career, has there been a drastic change in
communication and organization within your department?
The biggest change has been the transition from analog forms of communication
to computers and digital forms. I think it was in 97 that I switched from using a
typewriter to using a computer and keyboard.
We even used to have secretaries for most of the typing we did. Often, I would
handwrite a proposal, letter, etc. and hand it off to my secretary to have it typed
up. Also, we didnt have voicemail, our secretaries would record the message then
pass it on to us. I used to keep a pad of paper next to the phone for this purpose.

How would you describe your usual workday?

Usually I start my day by turning on my two computers and checking through my
emails. Ill also listen to any voicemails I received.
Ill have emails from customers or directives for the day I have to get to.

What types of written communication do you implore within your job?

Foremost, emails. Then I also write formal letters to customers. Within the
company, we also have internal memos and other forms of internal
communications.

What would you say has been your biggest challenge as a defense contractor?
Negotiations can be challenging. Ive done big and small negotiations throughout
the years. I think the most challenging one was the termination of a $126 million
contract. This happened when that program in the government was shut down,
and this affected numerous other companies as well. I ended up writing
procedures for conduct when the termination for convenience occurs.

What kind of relationship do you maintain between your manager/boss/employer?

A good one. I make a point to keep my boss informed and up to date on the work
Im doing. I also often seek advice, when necessary.

Do you engage in many collaborations between yourself and coworkers?

Largely, this revolves around training. Senior employees are often asked to train
new employees, were the go-to people for this.
When it comes to contracts negotiations, we usually work in teams as well. Upper
management tend to negotiate the cost of the contract, we usually manage the fees
and leg work. In the past, we would often travel to meet with customers in person,
but this has become no longer necessary with telecommunications.

In addition, do you collaborate with other departments?

We primarily collaborate with finance and billing when negotiating these
contracts. Other times we may work on proposals or reports, which will involve
program departments, finance, and our department.

How do you correspond with customers? Also, assuming you have varied
approaches, how might a change in how you correspond change the success you
have with said customer?
(First part answered earlier in interview)
Formal letter writing has the best success rate. Its less common and more
personable, our customers tend to react well when they receive a formal letter
from our department.