I always struggled with this one, with Afrikaans being my first language and English my second. Just the thought of writing a memo or a business document generated anxiety and procrastination. Doubt and insecurity creep in. I then realised and discovered after a read on Business Writing in Every Manager’s Desk Reference, that “being anxious about writing a business document does not imply your ability to write it. In fact, caring how you come across – which is most likely what’s causing your anxiety in the first place – is the first important ingredient in writing effective documents.”
The book further guides that effective writing is a leadership tool.
Why?
“It is said that poorly written documents can cloud issues and distract people’s thinking. If you as the writer don’t clearly articulate a point of view, the reader will have a hard time not only sorting through what is being said but also understanding the issue in the way you’d like for him to.”
In plain language, the book unpacks:
“#Leadership- having a vision for what you’d like to happen, and setting in motion the events that will realise your vision. It doesn’t mean you must necessarily command the forces that execute the plan – merely that you guide the thinking that eventually causes the plan to be executed.”
“Poorly written document – is a document in which the thinking is hard to follow, the point is hard to find, or the writing has mistakes or other flaws that distract and detract from the main message.
It is said that ” well-written documents clarify issues, assist people’s thinking, and ultimately build consensus. When you’re able to focus the reader’s thinking on the key issues, and concisely lay out why your point of view is a valid one, you’ve assumed a leadership role. In addition, you’ve created the framework for how the issue will be discussed.”
Things to consider when writing a business document:
– Clear Thinking
– Start with the purpose in mind
– Ask questions to focus your writing
– Who is your audience
– Advance your objectives
– Framing your thinking
– The opening Is the “Bottom Line”
For more on Effective Business Writing get a copy of the Every Manager’s Desk Reference
And yes, I•Am•Crisp, and I am just a somebody who is trying to learn some awesome stuff about Business Writing skills.
Article written by: Jonathan Crisp
