More people than ever are working from home, telecommuting, or communicating internationally with their colleagues. That’s why it’s more important than ever to hone your writing skills to ensure you’re both understood and taken seriously. Maybe you work in marketing and your content just isn’t making a lasting impression. Whatever the reason or format, we have some tips that can help you become a better writer.
Become an avid reader
Reading is one of the best ways to expand your vocabulary and make your writing style more creative. It’s important to read daily, but also to read the right kind of material to advance your writing skills. Reading a comic book may be entertaining, but it doesn’t help you become a better academic writer. Reading complex texts and literary works will help you improve your craft in no time.
Think about your audience
It is important for writers to know their audience. When you communicate, you need to use the right terms and language that fits your target. When you’re talking to your friends or family, you can be casual. However, when you are speaking to colleagues, clients or management, formal language is appropriate. There is a difference between formal and old-fashioned. Speaking formally simply means avoiding shorthand and using correct sentences and structures.
Consider an online course
There is no rule that says you have to stop learning. While most writing rules remain constant over the years, styles change regularly. In addition to styles, more words are added to the dictionary each year. Taking a free or paid online writing course is a great way to improve your writing skills or learn new ways to get your point across. Havard, edX, MIT, Udemy, Stanford, and many other schools offer free or low-cost online courses.
Mind your manners
Proper salutation is not only polite, but also a sign of a professional writer. Whether in business or in your personal life, always take the time to check your audience. Use the right name, pronouns, title, and gender to avoid unintentional faux pas in your writing. When in doubt, use gender-neutral and generic phrases until you have more accurate information. When addressing a large audience, always use neutral language to avoid alienation.