What Is Effective Business Writing? Does It Impact Me?

People use the term “Business Writing.” Is there really such a thing?

Business Writing Isn’t Just Writing!

First things first, let’s debunk a common misconception: business writing is more than just writing. It’s a skill set distinct from academic writing, which often prioritizes complexity over clarity.Long, cascading sentences are difficult to read and require extra time and attention to understand. High-level vocabulary slows communication also.

In the business world, clear and concise communication reigns supreme. And we even have a Business Writing class to address the issue.

Sometimes, writing e-mails, reports, and other documents can cause great difficulty. It’s a terrific challenge to communicate clearly and efficiently with others.

DOES YOUR WRITING CAUSE CONFUSION?

This is a question worth pondering. Misleading language or convoluted sentences can leave your readers scratching their heads instead of nodding in understanding. Do the words you choose mislead your readers? Does your writing cause people to say, “What?” instead of, “I understand”?

In today’s competitive business environment, it’s vital to write and speak in a way that shows others that you are organized, clear and concise. Other benefits or being clear and concise include: a greater level of productivity, increased job satisfaction, potential for advancement, as well as more internal and external customer satisfaction.

BAD BUSINESS WRITING COSTS MONEY

According to some experts, the US economy loses $75 billion each year because of poor English speaking skills. Additionally, others claim that 80% of business waste results from ineffective communication. The aim in both written and spoken communication is to cut waste and create a more positive workplace.

But fear not! By improving your business writing, you can enjoy many advantages. These include higher productivity and job satisfaction. Clear communication also helps create a better work environment and could save your business money. Bad communication at work leads to absenteeism, turnover, conflict, tension, low productivity, complaints, wasted time, and low morale.

Correct (or incorrect) writing has a significant impact on you and your reader. Consider these statements:

• Good writing builds credibility. Moreover, it shows respect for the audience.
• People may judge when you (don’t) know how to use the English language correctly (among many other things). Leaders in business who know how to write well pay attention to sloppy mistakes.
• People who make fewer mistakes in writing usually perform better on other tasks.

Being an Effective Business Writer means that you are empowered to:

• Gain greater awareness of your audience and how to communicate ideas more effectively;
• Organize your writing, following guidelines for correct sentence structure, writing style, and agreement;
• Know and apply the rules of punctuation, spelling, and mechanics; and
• Edit your own writing with confidence. 

CHARACTERISTICS OF EFFECTIVE BUSINESS WRITING

1. Is organized, clear and to the point (definite purpose).
2. Uses familiar language.
3. Has short and understandable sentences (≤ 20 words) and paragraphs (3-6 sentences).
4. Respects audience’s wants.
5. Supports claim with details / reasons.
6. Employs correct spelling, mechanics, and punctuation.
7. Follows standard English grammar and usage.

Think about it: good writing builds credibility and respect, while poor communication can lead to a myriad of workplace woes, from absenteeism to low morale. By working to hone your writing skills, you’re investing in professional success.

This information is from the Effective Business Writing class. If you’re looking for ways to improve your communication skills, register for one of our public classes.

Other Resources:

8 Must-Read Books that Will Improve Your Business Writing

How to Improve Your Business Writing

The Importance of Writing Skills in English