Business Writing Tip: Earning Credibility

It goes without saying that writers in Business and Industry are accountable to Management for the content and tone of their communications, but it is equally true that readers must also be taken into account.

Simply put, the communicator's job is often a balancing act of creating communications that satisfies Management and readers wants and needs at the same time. This may seem like an untenable challenge for Business Communicators, but in reality it is not all that dissimilar from what all writers and authors have to confront.

Consider that creative writers aim to entertain or inform their readers, but their editors have to be satisfied first. Substitute management for editors, and you can see the obvious parallel. Moreover, successful authors earn profits for their publishers, and success earns these writers acceptance and a degree of artistic freedom from editors.

That said, an effective Business Communicator can impact profitability every bit as much as a "best selling" author. (If you doubt this, then consider how a well-designed Training Manual, Operating Procedure, or Marketing Campaign can positively affect the bottom line.)

But if you feel that gaining more creative control over your writing will enhance it's impact and effectiveness, then you will have to earn this privilege. In real terms, this means building credibility and acceptance through sustained excellence, just like any other professional writer.

Granted, there is no easy formula for accomplishing this, but there are several common methods communicators can practice in order to enhance their credibility and influence. Start by committing yourself to the following:

1. Produce consistent and professional writing products.

It may seem obvious, but all projects deserve your best effort. A particular project may seem mundane and unimportant to you, but not so for someone who is counting on your expertise to produce an effective communication. Remember, simple and easy does not mean the same thing.

2. Meet deadlines.

Be aware that communications are generally time-sensitive and having a cavalier attitude about deadlines will not endear yourself to anyone. Keep in mind that nothing hurts a professional reputation more than being unreliable.

3. Invest time and effort to sharpen your Writing Skills.

Regardless of your formal education level, seek out Continuing Education opportunities. Writers are by nature curious, and if you are true to your Craft, you will embrace learning as part of the job.

4. Learn from your mistakes.

As difficult as it may be, accept criticism as a developmental opportunity. Obviously, no writer enjoys rejection, but viewing such as a personal attack on your competence is neither professional nor productive.

Finally, be mindful that even though you may have some very good and valid ideas on ways to improve communications in your organization, unless you have laid the groundwork to enhance your credibility, your ideas will likely fall on deaf ears. In the end, if you want to enhance your value and relevancy to your organization, you will have to work at it.

Jack