Becoming an exceptional writer is one of the best ways to future-proof your skills and ensure you will always be able to get work.
It doesn’t matter what industry you’re in. If you are a thoughtful and strategic writer, you’ll be more confident in your interactions in emails, public speaking, or even just small talk.
Curated by Martin R Ricketts Source: https://cnb.cx/3ErCvtM
Here’s my best advice:
Pick the right format for your message. Before you communicate an idea or request, decide on the best format to deliver your information.
For example, if you are sharing research involving complex data, then a PowerPoint displaying charts and images may be the best format.
If you are announcing management decisions, send a detailed email. Bullet points are a great way to get readers to focus on and digest information. You can also use the “STAR” method: situation, task, action, and result.
For discussions like progress updates or collecting feedback, a short email or in-person visit is generally sufficient.
Avoid industry jargon. Plain and simple language is the most effective way to articulate complex topics. Avoid jargon or industry acronyms, no matter how universal you think they are.
Consider using graphics or analogies to drive your point home. One of the best examples I’ve ever seen of this was when an executive designed his annual financial strategy presentation to mimic a children’s book.
But don’t include extraneous details that can go off-topic or overwhelm the audience. If it’s not necessary for the conversation, move it to the bottom of your note.
Reduce the amount of effort the audience needs to put in. Your recipients are bombarded with emails and documents all day. So before you send anything:
Show your work. If you are dealing with a potentially controversial topic (e.g., allocating a budget or restructuring a company department), walk readers through your thought process.
This approach builds confidence and shows people that you are thorough, can weave together a number of nuanced perspectives and can provide key context when it comes to big decisions.
Invite feedback, and make note of any concerns.
Write with precision. Finally, you want to make sure you project a strong and capable presence in all aspects of your job.
Before you send anything:
Mark Twain said, “I didn't have time to write you a short letter so I wrote you a long one.” Anyone who does a lot of writing, especially for marketing understands that profound truth.
Challenge yourself to remove as many words, sentences, and even whole ideas as possible. Then ask: Does my thesis still stand? Essentially, you should treat words like the valuable currency they are.
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