Business Writing at Its Best

Effective business writing is no longer just about clarity and conciseness, now we have to find techniques to capture the reader’s interest and to encourage them to take the action we want. This session focuses on spotlighting the reader in letters and emails and on using plain language writing techniques.

YOU WILL LEARN:

• Techniques to create reader “buy-in”
• Three templates for letters: information, bad news and persuasion
• The best organizational pattern for emails
• Tips to build minute-taking skills

COURSE OUTLINE

Introduction

• Business writing versus academic writing
• Understanding the needs and wants of today’s readers
• Characteristics of effective letters and emails

Plain Language Writing

• Definition of plain language writing versus clear language writing
• 4 steps for effective writing

Tone

• Knowing 3 tones every business writer must be able to use: formal, neutral, and warm
• Spotlighting the reader
• Words that bless/words that burn

Letter Organization

• 3 templates for letters: information, bad news, persuasion (sales)
• Powerful opening lines
• Effective closing lines
• Clichés to avoid

Group writing assignment

Emails

• Set-up
• Subject lines
• Opening lines

Group writing assignment

Minutes

• 5 sure-fire tips for easier minute taking

METHODS TO BE USED

This is a highly interactive workshop with participants involved in individual and group activities, exercises, and discussions. Questions are welcomed and encouraged.