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Capitalization Matters

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Lynn Gaertner-Johnston Updated on

A friend sent me an excerpt from a brief professional bio she had read online. The bio said the individual is a consultant for a china inspection service.

What do you think the consultant actually does? Inspect china for defects or cracks? Appraise the value of old china?

Are you thinking you might have some china for the consultant to inspect?

My friend was curious about the services the consultant provides, so she clicked a link to find out more. It turns out that the consultant inspects sites and operations in China for clients who set up manufacturing there from abroad.

This consultant will not attract appropriate clients if it appears that he inspects china. Capitalization matters!

Have you been misled because of incorrect capitalization or other errors? I welcome your examples.

Lynn

 

Posted by Lynn Gaertner Johnson
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. She grew up in suburban Chicago, Illinois.

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