Originally published April 2018, Updated February 2024. Professional business writing tips should include “be wary of trends” because every few years it seems we have some kind of odd language trend that dumbs down our communications. In the recent past, we’ve experienced the persistent “you know” inserted into almost every sentence and now we have the annoying “no worries” that’s currently used in place of “you’re welcome.” Sometimes these phrasings are used in verbal speech only, and are not crossing over into business writing, so...
(Originally published April 2017) Can changing just one word of your message get that message across faster when writing at work? I think so. Here’s why… I used to drive a stretch of freeway with a most annoying sign off to the west that irked me every time I passed it. The sign was a huge banner for a tree maintenance company and it read, “Are your trees safe?” I suspect the purpose of the sign was to generate business, but I don’t think their word choice was the best for doing so. However, that sign gives me an...
If you’re wondering how to improve business writing skills, here’s one easy way: Be specific. You’re a better communicator when you’re specific. If you mean three and you say a few, you’re being vague. If you mean three and you say three, you’ve been very clear in your business writing. That improvement in your communication adds to your credibility and it speeds up communication because your reader doesn’t have to respond with questions asking for more information or for clarification. Being specific strengthens your business...
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