Business Writing

Does "Ladies" Belong in a Salutation?

Rob wrote: I thought you might be a helpful sounding board from something I'm experiencing at work. Recently, one of our female executive leaders has been using the word Ladies as a salutation in her emails that include men in the To and/or the Cc of the email. I'm indifferent... Read more →

Use a Thank-You Note to Fix Interview Blunders

At job interviews it's easy to stumble over at least one question, especially if it's unexpected. Interview blunders can cause you to dread following up on your application. But don't lose heart! A thank-you note can remedy the situation. When you feel that you have blown an interview question, address... Read more →

How to Write the Interview Thank-You Note

My daughter's friends in college are interviewing for internships and permanent positions. Days after their interviews some of them ask, "Should I have sent a thank-you?" To them I say, Yes! And this blog post will help them--and you--write it. The purpose of the all-important interview thank-you is to thank... Read more →

Simple, No-Cost Gifts to Give

In many parts of the world, December is a month of giving gifts. On the job, you can give simple gifts this month and every day of the year with very little effort and no cost. Like the smile that costs nothing and gives a lot, these five gifts involve... Read more →

Personal, Tangible Greetings: Why and When to Send Them

When is the last time you sent a card or note to a business associate? If it's that long, read on for a nudge and some inspiration. The Case for Tangible Messages Thousands of unread messages fill my email inbox, and more drop in by the minute. My response: Delete.... Read more →

An Awkward Request Phrased Beautifully

Scenario: Imagine that you run a classy beachside hotel. Many of the hotel rooms have balconies that face the beach. Everyone walking from the beach toward the hotel can see the balconies. When guests hang wet bathing suits, towels, and other items over the balcony railings, the view is tacky--not... Read more →

Do You Give Readers the "Why" They Need?

The other night I was traveling from Boston to my home, Seattle. When I arrived at my connection city, Denver, at 7:15 p.m. I received this text message: Your Flight ___ on August 6 from DEN now departs at 11:55 p.m. We're sorry for the delay. Please visit [website]. The... Read more →

How to Write Mighty Thank-Yous

In my survey on business writing and relationships of 686 adults, 81 percent of respondents said that a thank-you note they received had a definite positive influence on their decision to do business with a company or an individual again. In an informal survey of blog commenters last week, all... Read more →

Do Graduates, Brides, and Grooms Write Thank-Yous?

It's the season of graduations and weddings, wonderful opportunities to celebrate graduates' accomplishments and individuals' commitments to one another. If you are a recent or soon-to-be bride, groom, or graduate, congratulations! Life is just beginning for you in many ways. One of the ways people celebrate your new life is... Read more →

10 Etiquette Tips for Business Text Messages

Texting customers, colleagues, clients, and others is mainstream business behavior. But with regular use, there can be abuse. Don’t text just because you can. Text because people want or need to hear from you, and make the messages convenient for them—not just for yourself. Review the 10 tips below, and... Read more →