Words for Business

In many instances, potential customers will develop their first impression of your business based on something that is written. As a result, you certainly want to ensure the materials you produce flow well and are error-free. You can’t let your guard down even after someone becomes a client; you always want your written communications—even e-mails—to come across professionally and without errors.

Five to Remember
Here are solutions to some of the most prevalent problems seen in business writing. Incorporate these into your writing process, and the documents you produce will positively position you and your company.

1. Get organized before you write. If you need to prepare an outline, then do it. You don’t want your readers wading through unorganized copy; it’s your job to smooth the way for them.
2. Know your audience. Are the people you’re targeting well schooled about your industry, or do they need a little education? Be sure you’re writing at an appropriate level, not over or under the capabilities of your readers.
3. Avoid using corporate or industry jargon. You wouldn’t write in a foreign language for a U.S. audience, right? Using phrases or acronyms that are not common knowledge is tantamount to doing that very thing.
4. Be simple; avoid lengthy sentences. You win no awards for writing long sentences or using big words. Doing either or both of those things as a way of impressing readers is probably going to backfire.
5. Use active voice. Don’t back into your sentences. Lead with the subject and your prose will be more exciting and forceful.

Adrienne Moch is a business writer/editor who specializes in helping companies communicate professionally in all their written materials. For more information, and to sign up for her quarterly online newsletter, visit www.adriennemoch.com.