IN A NUTSHELL

The average office worker receives about 121 emails per day. 

In a world overflowing with information, and with dwindling attention spans, the ability to make your words count is more important than ever. 

Clear, actionable, and concise writing isn’t just good practice; it’s a strategic tool for effective communication, smart decision-making, and building connections in the digital age.

 

LEARN

Three key learnings for mastering writing

 

Inform and Connect

Your writing should do two things: provide clear information and make a personal connection. Think about writing as a way to talk directly to your reader. Cut through the digital deluge to deliver meaningful content.

Write for Your Reader

Ask yourself who you’re really writing for. Consider how your words will make them feel and how much information they actually need. Remember that less can often be more. Your writing should offer value, not add to the overload.

Concise is Nice

Plain speaking is powerful. Get to the point without losing your human touch. Remember, every word should have a purpose. It’s about being clear, concise, and precise, making your message easy to read and relatable.

 

ACT

Three practical actions for effective writing

 

Start with Your Goal

Begin by identifying the goal of your message. What do you want to achieve, and how do you want your audience to respond? This goal-oriented mindset ensures your writing is focused and effective.

Prioritise Key Information

Write with a front-loading approach, placing the most important information at the beginning of your communication. Additionally, consider swapping nouns for verbs. These strategies minimise unnecessary details, making sure your key messages are both clear and easily understood.

Use Inclusive and Relatable Language

Choose words that are open, approachable, and reflect everyday speech. People are already tired of bot-speak, so keep your writing real.  This style of inclusive and authentic writing helps you connect more effectively with your audience, making your communication more engaging and human.

 

 

GROW

Words of advice from those who have lived it

“If you’re not note-taking or journaling, or getting creative for fun, you’re not writing for you, you’re writing for someone else.” – Erin Labacqz

“Learning how to write concisely and strategically has changed my approach to our communications. It’s not just about being direct; it’s about being effective. This skill has streamlined my work and improved the clarity of our messaging.” – Emma Lopez, Communications Director.

“Keep your finger on the pulse of how people like to be communicated with by observing yourself as a reader.  When we get annoyed by a text or motivated by an email, be curious and explore why, what they did do and how they did it. Take the learnings into your writing to stay on top of changing consumer needs and tastes.” – Sarah Clayton-Jones, READ TO LEAD 

CLOSING THOUGHTS

Navigating the digital deluge requires more than just crafting words; it involves strategic writing where each word serves a purpose. By embracing conciseness, avoiding fluff, and writing with intent, your writing won’t just survive the digital deluge – it will thrive in it.

This blog was inspired by the book ‘High Value’ written by Erin Labacqz.  For more nuggets of insight and action on strategic writing, check out the two short clips below from our exclusive Q&A with Erin. 

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