I Just Can’t Write!

People ask me what to do when they are having difficulty producing basic communication. Often writers can’t get past perfectionism, the need to be right, or the feeling that they should write a book on the topic. My advice: Stop worrying and get started. Turn your attention to the topic, rather than focusing on yourself. Remember that someone had confidence in your communication skills or you wouldn’t have been asked to handle the project. Keep the writing monkeys, Benny and Baxter, off your back. They’re adorable, yet if given a chance, they will try to confuse you. So, focus on simplicity. Stop worrying about politically correct wording, fearing others might not agree, or trying to sound knowledgeable, based on limited knowledge.

First, knowing the goal of the communication (stating it up-front) and for whom it is intended is essential. Then it is best to plan an approach to your topic—how you can relay only the information needed, succinctly. If this approach requires additional research, just do it; certainly, check your dates and facts for accuracy. Next, think in “three’s” for the major points. Depending on the style of the communication, you might be able to throw in a personal story. Make sure to end with a “call-to-action,” so that the audience knows what is expected. That’s it.

Now it’s your turn to write.

Long story, short: Give your readers/listeners exactly what they need to act.

www.MakingWordsWork.biz

 

 

 

 

 

Spread the Word

Personal notes for all occasions are always tasteful and elegant. When saved, these notes evoke memories year after year. During my growing up years, I, as well as many of you, learned to write a thank-you note after receiving a present. That was a good start. Now I’ve expanded my repertoire of note writing to occasions beyond birthday or holiday times. I let others know that I appreciate their efforts, recognize their talents or care about them in specific ways. A simple, yet authentic, note in your handwriting creates more good will, interest, smiles and memories than you know.

Personal notes are as unique as the people who send them. Some elementary children sent thank-you letters to a western Minnesota ecology center for the wonderful bus field adventure they experienced (www.ecologybus.org). Some of these notes went on to be used as part of a clever fundraising venture.

I often smile at the notes written by young children who can barely print their names: they’re learning the fine art of expression that will forever serve them. My eighty-something mother, who lives in Florida, still writes notes of enjoyment: most recently, about two boxes of Honey Crisp apples. It is the simple things that make a difference.

I also hear from businesses, adult students who have attended my seminars, and friends. I have created a “Feel Good” folder where I keep those notes. It’s never too late to start a collection. Then, should you have a “down day,” refer to the folder and you will experience instant waves of joy and happiness.

Long story, short: Set a goal to write one personal note each week.

 

www.MakingWordsWork.biz

 

 

I’m Back

When establishing a business presence, it is so important to remember the word “consistency.” (I should be so bold as to imagine that some of you actually might have missed seeing my blog for the past two weeks?!) I offer no other reason for my absence than being over-extended in too many areas. So, rest assured. I’m back!

Some things in life are dynamic, and I expect change in these situations: physical growth, challenges, and adventures. In other areas of my life, I appreciate the static things—things that are consistent: high business standards, work ethic, friendships, curiosity. My life is most enriched by experiencing both.

Communication is much the same. Static rules (and even those change; for example, the comma omitted or included in a series before the final “and”) and the dynamic creativity of sentence syntax dance together. And when this happens, people notice. As long as words have meaning (dynamic) and complement (static) one another, there will be a degree of consistency.

Long story, short: Strive to balance the dynamic and static elements of writing.

www.MakingWordsWork.biz

 

 

 

 

 

How Memorable is Your Business?

How do you add value to what you do? With many qualifications being similar, what makes you or your business “stand out”? Most marketers would refer to this factor as your USP—unique selling principle. I think of it as a “bonus.” This is something you wouldn’t have to do or have to offer, but you do because this bonus, although a small item or service, is quite memorable.

Recently, I’ve witnessed the bonus in my travels. As a final step, some boutiques will place an otherwise ordinary item in a delightful bag with colorful tissue and ribbons, making me feel festive. Another time when I’ve asked about the spiciness of a deli food item, my question has been received with a smile and a substantial taste. I feel as if the vendor is working with me, helping me to make a decision. Can’t forget about my CPA. He sends a template to help me organize my tax information–a great way for people like me who really would prefer that others take care of the “numbers.”

My bonus? I offer a free, monthly Writing Roundtable to help business people understand more about timely communications topics and to provide a natural setting for meeting people and networking.

First offer integrity in your business and then do something memorable. It will make you feel good.

Long story, short: Everyone wins!

www.MakingWordsWork.biz

As the Holidays Approach, Try Not to Eat Words!

Ah, yes, proofreading. This is a critical part of communications. I wrote the birthday announcement, reread it, ran Spell Check and proceeded to email my family and friends. All the while, I felt thuds as Benny and Baxter jumped from the writing table, to the filing cabinet, to the comfy chair, and back again. Those silly writing monkeys!

An hour later, I found the announcement among the other unopened email, since I usually include myself as a recipient. I opened the email, imagining that I knew nothing about its content.

This is perfect, I thought. The information line indicated a fun story! I lovingly read over the wording, and felt pride of ownership. Suddenly my eyes narrowed at the email address: Oh, no, an errant “w.” Where did that come from? I sighed heavily, feeling a pit in my stomach.

Now I could hope that family and friends would overlook the error and, because many of them already knew the correct email address, just use it. Or, wait to be notified and then feign disbelief that such an error could have happened. Or, I could pull myself together and simply send the dreaded “Oops!” message, correcting the problem.

Understanding ego, which invariably raises its head at just these moments, I felt as if I should have been flogged with a “wet” noodle. I could have read the announcement backwards, most likely catching the error. I didn’t. Focusing on my humanness, I decided to find a different perspective, and write a blog entry. Maybe someone else would not feel alone with this same problem.

Between the “Oops” message and the blog entry, I’m feeling slightly redeemed. Certainly, the heart of the announcement will find its way to fulfillment, and the birthday will be memorable. Yet, I continue to eat that little “w.”

Long story, short: Writers are always at risk.

 

www.MakingWordsWork.biz

 

 

Choose Carefully!

Positive language, an upbeat tone and personal energy should always be part of a communicator’s toolbox. Often it seems easy to write or speak the negativity that surrounds us—certainly people are used to hearing about, reading or participating in the “downers” of society. News stories, radio programs, day-to-day conversations or gossip are proof. However, choosing to focus on positive words enhances reputation.

Even in a “bad news” letter, one can move the recipient to neutral by ending the letter with what the company can do for the individual. A sales associate may want to tell a customer, “That’s not my job”; however, a simple “I’ll find someone else who can assist you” would be so much more effective.During contract negotiations, when a client has a limited budget, it is always advantageous to say what can be done within that dollar amount, and work from there. There are words and then there are words. Either way, word choice makes a person memorable.

Long story, short: Create a positive encounter.

 

 

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