Hi!
Here’s a helping hand on the words front for next week.
👇
What writing in the wrong character can lead to…
"Let us have an end to such phrases as these:
'It is also of importance to bear in mind the following considerations' or 'consideration should be given to the importance of carrying into effect'.
Most of these wooly phrases are mere padding, which can be left out altogether or replaced by a single word.
Let us not shrink from using the short expressive phrase, even it is conversational."
Winston Churchill
When we sit down to write we stiffen up.
We suddenly feel the need to sound professional, educated, and intellectual.
I have a theory that we assume a character. Then, from the first word, we set the tone in stone that defines the entire piece.
So, if we begin…
Dear Mr. Harrison,
In regards to your email, dated 11 September 2020, I am writing to inform you that, due to the recent and unprecedented events, we have suspended your gym membership until further notice.
…we find Winston’s wooly phrases.
When did it become so stiff? From the word ‘dear’.
The scene is set. We’ve assumed a character. We’re writing as someone else. Because, that’s surely not how we speak.
Don’t write as an Account Manager to a Customer. Or from one colleague to another. Write as you, as you are in normal life.
Imagine writing to your partner, your kid, your gran, or your best mate. Begin all writing—even reports, promotion requests, job applications—with their name.
You can edit later, but now you’ll begin warmly, naturally, informally, and friendly.
How to improve your writing? Intentional practice.
Hope you have a great week and make words work for you.
John
p.s. I finished my ebook 10x your writing 📙