enJOY it

Spent the morning in Business Communication talking about effective business writing.  Established that it is important that your bottom line or point of the document is clearly stated near the top of your writing.

Studies have shown that while 90% of business people read a paper’s introduction, only 20% continue on to read the body of the material.  In addition, they tend to be preoccupied and impatient – thus making it more important to deliver your message quickly and directly. 

Lesson 1: When I grow up, I am going to be preoccupied and impatient.  But at least I am going to be able to write well.

Lesson 2: What I really took from the class has nothing to do with writing.  It has to do with my communication in general.  How most situations would probably be easier if I was able to clearly state my point.  In conversations.  In arguments.  In my own head.  Sometimes, I think it is easier to dance around what I really want to say.  I figure that whomever I am talking to will be able to figure out what I mean.  Not true.  Convoluted ideas are confusing, distracting and ineffective.  Going to work on getting to the point.  Delivering the message.  One. Word. At. A. Time.