Last week, I stepped outside my comfort zone to create ads and launch online campaigns for a local business. As a writer with limited experience in digital publishing tools, it was a steep learning curve—but I pulled it off. (At least I think I did!) The process reminded me how crucial it is to understandContinue reading “Crafting clear communications”
Tag Archives: plain language
It’s plain and clear
I’m working on Presentation Mastery. It’s a path in the International Toastmasters Pathway’s Program. My objective is to deliver a persuasive speech. Persuasive speeches can be used to inspire, convince or as a Call to Action. My first thought was, what am I passionate about that I can persuade an audience? Then I realized, it’sContinue reading “It’s plain and clear”
Say it simply
You have an exciting opportunity to build a strong and meaningful brand by being consistent in everything you do. Your brand is an important asset. It’s a perception in the minds of consumers and represents what they know and how they feel about you and your business. Your brand offers a compelling promise to yourContinue reading “Say it simply”
Write clearly. Be understood.
As we write, we tend to add information we don’t need. We transfer how we speak to the keys on a keyboard. We use jargon that only we understand and we add unnecessary words. When you write in plain language, you write concisely. You eliminate technical jargon and write clearly so your readers understand. TipsContinue reading “Write clearly. Be understood.”
Break it down, step by step
The other day I baked apple squares. I used a recipe that required only a few steps and seemed simple enough. Full confession, I am not a baker. I followed the steps and despite my pan being slightly larger than the recipe called for, I think the squares turned out pretty good. This got meContinue reading “Break it down, step by step”
Narrow it down!
I’m often asked how I come up with a topic for my writing, followed by how I narrow down the possibilities. I have to admit, sometimes it’s just a random thought that pops into my head. Other times I draw on an experience. I’ve also learned a few techniques along the way to draw outContinue reading “Narrow it down!”
Writing with purpose
I’m sometimes asked to write letters, ads, posts, etc. for my customers. And, of course, I’m always happy to help. Whether it’s a flyer to promote their services or a letter to explain a change, knowing the purpose and what the sender wants the reader to do is an important first step. I like toContinue reading “Writing with purpose”
Let’s talk jargon
Language is flooded with words that reflect lifestyles, cultural groups dialects, professional practices or occupations, and those that we just plain make up. Jargon is great, if you’re talking with individuals familiar with the business, topic or area. If you’re communicating to a broader diverse audience, using jargon can lead to confusion. Merriam-Webster defines jargonContinue reading “Let’s talk jargon”
For the love of words
Have you ever stopped to think about the words you use when you’re explaining a concept or providing direction? We tend to throw in [a lot of] extra words. That might make your communication more conversational, or maybe not. In reality, when we add extra words, we create more work for the reader. There’s moreContinue reading “For the love of words”
Polishing the talk
If you had asked me years ago, if I wanted to become a communicator, I would have said no. Becoming a good communicator takes work and frankly, I didn’t know what that entailed. As it turned out, the more experience I gained, the more I loved communicating. It’s now one of my favourite things! GoodContinue reading “Polishing the talk”
Writing for you. 