Talk Archives

What is Albeit and How To Use It

Updated 31 August, 2021. Albeit is an interesting word that can be heard today from time to time. If you wish to add a bit of colour and flair to your writing or speech, adding it could certainly do that. But first, let’s learn a few facts about… continue reading

Graphic of a man pointing to the definition of the expression "moot point"

What Does The Expression “Moot Point” Mean?

A moot point is an irrelevant fact because it does not pertain to the current situation. The phrase “mute point” does not exist; it’s a mistake since the word mute means silent. Moot rhymes with “root” while mute rhymes with “beaut.” The Definition of Moot… 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

How To Respectfully Criticize A Company Decision

Understanding how to give constructive criticism is one of the most fundamental skills in the business world. It is essential in reconsidering marketing initiatives, improving employee performance, and even conducting self-assessments as a manager or company owner. When offering criticism to an individual, you must… continue reading

Virtual Chat Business Etiquette With Clients

In today’s business world, using Zoom chat messaging has become the norm. Virtual connection in-person meeting saves time (a commodity that has become increasingly scarce) and money. The pandemic seemed to propel us even further in this direction with great speed. Some companies, such as Kumospace take… continue reading

A Perfect, Imperfect Sign

On vacation in Las Cruces, New Mexico, I try not to focus on business writing. But it’s a habit that’s hard to break. Words, phrases, and messages grab my attention, even on vacation. Here’s a sign I like for its brevity and directness, though traditionalists… continue reading

True Story: How to Help Employees Write Better

Read the brief, true story below about Eric and his supervisor, Linda. Then decide: If you were in Linda’s role, would you handle the situation the same way? ***** Eric has just written his first newsletter article about an innovative approach the team has developed… continue reading

The Differences Between Our Writing and Shakespeare’s

Today is William Shakespeare’s 449th birthday. Imagine being remembered for your fine writing hundreds of years after your death! But if you are a business writer, being remembered is not as important as being effective day by day. Has the email you sent this morning… continue reading

Talk

Lies and Exaggeration in Business Writing

In the United States, political analysts and late-night television comedians have been talking about truth and lies, in light of the recent political convention. They accuse some convention speakers of hyperbole, misrepresentation, and blatant lying. Politicians and their spokespersons have been defending or talking around… continue reading

Talk

Something to Add to Restaurant Training Manuals

Standing in line at a famous fast-food restaurant the other day, I overheard the person in front of me asking the counter clerk for advice. She wanted to know which was the best salad. The first clerk said she had never eaten the salads, so… continue reading