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Sign Language

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Lynn Gaertner-Johnston Updated on

I recently led a Better Business Writing class for a well-respected company in one of its large training rooms. The room had two doors, one at either end. Each door had a sign next to it. I believe the signs were saying the same thing, but I am not certain.

The first sign was printed in short lines as follows:

OCCUPANT LOAD
PARTITION OPEN
CONCENTRATED USE – 126
       LESS
CONCENTRATED
       USE – 63

The second sign said:

MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY
        126

Which one do you prefer?

Lynn

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By Lynn Gaertner-Johnston

Lynn Gaertner-Johnston has helped thousands of employees and managers improve their business writing skills and confidence through her company, Syntax Training. In her corporate training career of more than 20 years, she has worked with executives, engineers, scientists, sales staff, and many other professionals, helping them get their messages across with clarity and tact.

A gifted teacher, Lynn has led writing classes at more than 100 companies and organizations such as MasterCard, Microsoft, Boeing, Nintendo, REI, AARP, Ledcor, and Kaiser Permanente. Near her home in Seattle, Washington, she has taught managerial communications in the MBA programs of the University of Washington and UW Bothell. She has created a communications course, Business Writing That Builds Relationships, and provides the curriculum at no cost to college instructors.

A recognized expert in business writing etiquette, Lynn has been quoted in "The Wall Street Journal," "The Atlantic," "Vanity Fair," and other media.

Lynn sharpened her business writing skills at the University of Notre Dame, where she earned a master's degree in communication, and at Bradley University, with a bachelor's degree in English.

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