The Job of Grammar

Kyle Wiens has written a sensible article on the importance of grammar:  "I Won't Hire People Who Use Poor Grammar.  Here's Why." 

Yes; people like Mr. Wiens do exist in the real world.  I know folks who will shy away from doing business with people who make grammar mistakes in introductory e-mails.  These folks also do not look favorably upon job applicants who make the same blunders.

Mr. Wiens touches on the import of grammar, that it reflects something more fundamental about a person than mental skill, when he writes:  "Grammar signifies more than just a person's ability to remember high school English.  I've found that people who make fewer mistakes on a grammar test also make fewer mistakes when they are doing something completely unrelated to writing — like stocking shelves or labeling parts."

That something more is both self-control and dependability.  These are ethical qualities.  Someone who does not write according to whim but follows conventions in order to communicate clearly with others in the same society typically may be relied upon to follow instructions and discharge one's duty.

Grammar sticklers care about more than just good grammar; they care about good character.