Imagine showing up at a black-tie event in a t-shirt, shorts, and your favourite comfy sneakers.
Everyone is confused by this, and you're sure to raise some eyebrows!
Just like this dress code faux pas, using casual writing in a formal context could negatively impact your colleagues' opinions of you.
Writing For Work
Your writing style is determined by WHO you are writing for.
Business writingis for an audience you do not know personally and is used for a range of work-related material - from emails and memos to business reports and presentations.
Be active, clear, and concise in your writing.
Use an objective tone, avoid slang, revise and correct mistakes, and above all: be professional.
Now You Try It!
You need to inform a colleague about a meeting that has been rescheduled.
Which of the following content would be appropriate for this email?
A - Meeting rescheduled to 5pm
B - Dear Mr. Nate. Due to unforeseen circumstances, today's meeting has been postponed from 3pm to 5pm.
C - Updated invitation: Marketing discussion (January to June) at Jun 15, 2020, 5 pm – 6.30 pm
D - Hey Nate, I'm so bummed. Our meeting's bin pushed to 5 and not gonna have time to catch our usual drink together :(
Quiz
Which of the above is the correct answer?
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Writing For Yourself
Informal writing is used in personal settings, such as sharing a story or writing a personal blog. It is much more relaxed.
Use shorter sentences, write and sound the way you speak.
The main objective here is to express yourself so go right ahead!
Remember your context, though.
You still have to communicate your message.
Just because the writing is personal does not give you an excuse to be sloppy and incorrect!
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Take Action
Again: Context, context, context!
In a professional setting: your writing should always reflect favourably on you and the organization you work for.
In an informal setting: there are no rules, but you still want to stay true to your personal standards.
Recognize your writing style as a reflection of you, and use it to your advantage!
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