I think we know where this is headed.

Madonna's forthcoming CD is "MDNA." If you're that well known by just your first name, why bother with spelling it out.

BD (the artist formerly known as Bud)

"All applicants MUST include salary expectations."

F**k every employer that includes that in a job ad.

For Sale

Whoever posted this ad doesn't need a computer. He needs an English teacher:

"The Dell Inspiron E1505 notebook is a great condition. It already pre-installed Window 7 Home Premium Operating System. 1.73 Ghz Processor Speed, and Intel Core 2 of the Processor type. If you will be interested in adding upgrades memory, hard drive disk, etc then, you will be responsibilities paying on your own. I am highly recommend you need to be consider do choose a free Microsoft Essential Security download through website for free Anti-Virus Program."

"Attention to detail a must"

Is that really needed as a requirement in ads for editors? That's what we do by definition.

Testing applicants—as well errors in resumes and cover letters—will weed out those who demonstrate an inattention to detail.

It's better to give than to receive. Not.

From the Washington Post ads under "editor":



Ask not what an employer can do for you, but what you can do for an employer. The editing job market has taken an ugly turn.

Overkill: Editor Testing, cont'd

In a Craigslist post by Publications Professionals LLC in Fairfax, VA:

"ALL candidates must successfully complete a 3-hour-long battery of tests of their English-language, editorial, and proofreading skills."

I passed PP's test in 2002, which led to a temp-to-perm position. I was hired after three months, worked at that company until 2007, and then quit in a huff over my nonsensical reassignment driven by politics. I evidently have been blacklisted by PP ever since; my many inquiries re temp work have been fruitless.