Business communications Archives

Abstract vs. Concrete Language: Which Is Better and Why?

When you hear the term “abstract,” what comes to mind? A painting by Jackson Pollock? And if you hear the word “concrete,” what’s the first thing you think of? A foundation? Or a sidewalk? Your brain pulled these answers quickly. Why? Because you are most… continue reading

Tips for Writing Gender-Neutral Emails

Gender-neutral language writing strategies are becoming increasingly popular. The goal is to write or speak using non-discriminatory language and to avoid gender-biased expressions or stereotypes. This will enable you to more easily connect with your audience and allow everyone to feel appreciated. So then, here… continue reading

Quickly Get to the Point in your Writing

Life is short. And so is the attention span of most people. This is why copywriters, marketing experts, and anyone who writes for a living repeats the writer’s mantra daily: Quickly get to the point! And it’s no different with business communication—your audience will expect… continue reading

Email—Avoid Being Too Informal Too Soon

Just as language evolves over time, the way we communicate in business has changed. Phone calls and letters seem almost archaic now. Email is the foundation that most businesses’ communication and marketing strategies sit upon. And this is why you need to know not only… continue reading

Should You Use Buzzwords in Business Writing?

Business writing is inundated with buzzwords and buzz phrases—just try to find a slogan that doesn’t contain “cutting edge technology” or “think outside of the box.” They are hugely popular and accepted by most readers as everyday speech. But, does popularity and general acceptance indicate… continue reading

The Importance of Knowing Your Audience

Business communication comes in many forms and spans international borders, cultures, and demographics. Therefore, you must know precisely who your audience will be—their background, demographic traits, their knowledge of the subject already, and their expectations of your presentation. It can be easy to turn off… continue reading

How to Properly Format Your Business Documents

Simple and effective formatting is a powerful tool in your writer’s toolbox. It can help to transform a lengthy, redundant, and boring (gasp!) business document into a concise and visually-appealing presentation. Learn how to do so correctly and watch your writing skills dramatically improve. Why… continue reading

When and How to Use Jargon

The business world is inundated with jargon—and its effects can range from merely annoying to completely obscuring the meaning of something. Some people rely too heavily on jargon in their writing. And because it’s easy to use—trendy catchphrases you’ve picked up from others—you may find… continue reading

How to Politely Substitute and In Person Meeting with a Conference Call

How To Politely Substitute an In-Person Meeting With A Conference Call

It’s no secret — some of the best deals and decisions are made across the conference room table. But is it possible to switch to a conference call without interrupting your workflow or negotiations? Having face-to-face meetings is, unquestionably, one of the most effective ways to… continue reading

Email vs. Phone: Which One Is Best?

In one corner is email—younger, quicker, a real contender. And in the other corner is the phone—older but proven as an adept close-quarters fighter. And the winner is… Both! In the world of business communications, the email vs. phone match continues round after round. And… continue reading