Table of Contents
1. Why effective business writing is important
Contrasting case studies
How good are your writing skills?
2. How effective is your writing style?
Know your reader
Planning and purpose
Getting the reader on your side
Making it clear: The fog index
Style
Using appropriate language
Avoiding offense
Grammar
Punctuation
Spelling
Checking your document
Business writing checklist
3. Writing for colleagues
Recording meetings
Appraisals and disciplinary procedures
Writing memos
Using e-mail
Avoiding e-mail overload
Internal publications
4. How to write a letter
Are you a successful letter writer?
Requesting information
Delivering a straightforward message
The persuasive letter
Making a complaint
Answering complaints
Letters in print
Rejection letters
The personal note
5. What are reports for?
Planning a report
Carrying out research
Sources of information
Putting a report together
6. Writing for the customer
Producing a questionnaire
The direct approach
Producing a brochure
Writing instructions
7. Know your media
Writing a press release
Sample press release
Getting a feature published
Planning a readable feature
Structuring a feature
Writing ad copy
Recruitment advertising
Develop your business writing skills