When you wake up in the morning, why do you take a shower, wear freshly ironed clothes, fix your hair and make-up? You most probably do this because you care about how you look. Do you feel the same about your writing? If you send a message in all capitals, filled with abbreviations, typos and grammatical errors, what is the reader likely to think of you? Probably that you couldn’t be bothered to take the time to correct the errors. That won't give a great impression, will it?
If you are attending a meeting or visiting a client, you would make sure you are suitably dressed. Similarly, you must make sure you present yourself appropriately online too. Does your email or report or proposal look good? Have you checked to make sure there are no spelling errors? Have you read it as though you are speaking to check that the punctuation is correct? Are all the important details included? Have you made the action points quite clear? Will it make a good impression?
Impressions are important, and you can control what they will be. It only takes a little effort to write courteously, to show consideration and common sense. It won’t hurt, and the benefits are many.
With written messages, perception is the only reality. It’s your choice whether you want to be perceived as educated and courteous. If you simply don’t care, then that will be obvious too.
What steps will you take today to improve your writing reputation? Leave me a note and let us all know.
For more tips on improving your business writing, check out my video series: Shirley's Bite-size Business Writing Tips. You'll find lots more helpful advice on how to improve your writing skills.