Beth Worthy
11/12/2013
Every business person who writes anything at all needs to know and adhere to the Golden Rules of business writing: Put your audience first.
Yes, the Golden Rule of business writing is to always make sure your audience understands your message. Of course any rule is only as effective as the sum of its parts. There are eight parts to the Golden Rule of business writing.
Here they are:
Eschew the Corporate Jargon
Nobody likes cliches but everyone seems to use them. Cliches don't really say anything. "Think outside the box" and find a way to truly describe what you have to say is different.
Keep It Simple
A vast vocabulary is a good thing until your audience needs a dictionary to get through one of your emails. Don't utilize big words when you can use simple ones instead.
Know the Difference Between Chris and Kris
People get very offended when you start reassigning their gender. Confirm it before you write to them.
Be Precise
People are busy. They don't have time to read through long emails to figure out what you need. Keep your emails specific and simple.
Stop Shouting
No matter how excited you are about your idea, try to refrain from using exclamation points or typing in all caps. Keep it professional because you never know what the future might have in store. Your great idea might not actually be that great.
Be active
Passive emails don't persuade. Always write in an active voice.
Remember the Call to Action
You're writing because you want something. Make sure it's clear what you wantand your reader doesn't have to guess.
Write from a professional account
Always use your business email while writing, because it gives your business a more professional look, and makes you more trustworthy in the eyes of the recipient.
Also Read: The Business Case for Translating Podcast and The Future of Multilingual Storytelling
