Writing should be in response to co-worker or customer inquiries, and should include
- letters
- emails
- social media posts
- reports
- company publications (e.g., intranet, employee website, handbooks).
Writing should reflect an understanding that customer inquiries should be treated as a sales opportunity. The writer should also
- recognize sources of accurate information
- use direct, descriptive, and specific language (i.e., expressing technical concepts and vocabulary in layperson’s language, as appropriate)
- clarify inquiries
- use correct grammar and writing mechanics
- use an appropriate communication format
- ensure that the written communication is presented in a neat and well-organized way
- proofread before sending any written communication
- respond in a professional and timely manner
- follow up.
Process/Skill Questions:
- What do you consider a timely manner for returning communication? For employee-employer? For customer?
- When is written communication more desirable than spoken communication?
- Why is it essential to consider the audience when planning and writing a business communication?
- What is jargon? How can one use lay terms to replace jargon?
- Why is proofreading important?