Tag: writing
Does Freelancing Fit Your Lifestyle?
October 25, 2016
October is Small Business Month, so it’s a great time to consider whether the freelance movement is right for you — now or in the future. One desirable benefit of freelancing is how well it accommodates certain lifestyles, including: Digital Nomads: White-collar freelancers can choose to travel beyond their national borders and work anywhere there’s […]
Strategic Communications 101
September 8, 2015
With the back-to-school season underway, let’s review how to achieve your business goals by applying reading, writing and ‘rithmatic to develop a strategic communications plan. An effective communications plan acts as your company’s results-oriented roadmap, helping you get where you want to go — using minimal time, money and effort. Use the following steps to […]
More than luck: 5 tips for winning sales proposals
March 17, 2015
To secure lucrative new clients, even the luck of the Irish may not be enough for your business. Instead, using written proposals as compelling sales tools can help your company stand out, win major accounts and boost your revenue fast. Apply these 5 tips to charm decision makers with strong sales proposals: 1. Use a […]
Sell With Words: 10 Tips
January 14, 2014
Captivating content marketing is all about starting with a solid plan. Here are some tips on what to do before you start writing. 1. Focus on your goal. You want the reader to respond, whether it’s though buying your service or visiting your website. Identify the main objectives of your content marketing strategy then focus […]
Attract Attention: Timeless Tips
December 17, 2013
While 67 years have passed since George Orwell established his famous Writing Rules, his advice remains as relevant as ever in today’s age of relentless communication. Orwell’s rules can help brands engage customers and employees through clear, compelling content. To help your business stand out, apply Orwell’s timeless wisdom: Avoid clichés Use short words Cut […]
Simplicity = Good Business Sense
December 10, 2013
Why is simplicity so hard? Some of my clients have worried that simple writing dumbs down the message and insults the reader. I disagree – and I successfully convinced my clients that clear, concise writing shows actually respect for the audience. Here’s what I tell clients about the power of simple prose: 1. Readers never […]
Think Like a Strategist
November 19, 2013
Before you create any new communication, start by focusing on the results you want to achieve. By thinking strategically upfront, you will save time, minimize rework and move your business forward. Answer these questions to think – and write – like a strategist: My Purpose Why am I writing this communication? To inform? Announce? Recommend? […]
Spooky Fact: Bad Writing Kills Profit
October 29, 2013
Forget zombies and ghosts. What’s really scary is how poor business writing – on websites, press releases and brochures – costs companies credibility and profit. Despite the business benefits of clarity, poor copy remains pervasive. The Business Case for Clear Communication Since readers are busy, they will tune out vague, verbose or jargon-filled messages, leading […]
Breaking Bad Business Writing Habits
October 22, 2013
Bad habits – like using jargon, acronyms and clichés – ruin business communications like Walter White’s drug empire ruined lives. In our digital world of 140-character messages, bad writing habits lead to ineffective communications that readers ignore. To break bad habits and create clear communications your audience will read, use these tips: Know why you’re […]
Successful Small Business Strategies
October 18, 2013
October is Small Business Month! To help your small business stand out in a crowded market, focus on strategic activities that increase your visibility and credibility. These marketing strategies can help your small business make a big impact: Get out there: Join local chambers of commerce, trade groups and niche business groups to connect with […]
Write Like a Strategist
September 17, 2013
To accomplish your business goals, you need written copy that prompts your audiences to think and act differently. Use these writing best practices to keep your audience interested and engaged: Challenge yourself to think of your audience’s point of view Use an outline that is clear, focused and logical Get straight to the point; start […]
Strategic Thinking: A Competitive Advantage
September 12, 2013
Before I write anything, I make sure I understand my clients’ business objectives. This practice helps me align my writing with solutions to the problems that keep CEOs awake at night. It’s worth the effort to consistently consider the big picture before you communicate. Strategy matters to your competitiveness because it helps you: Sort through […]