Needless to say, Business Communicators are influenced by the inside languages used in their organizations and industries. Its use reflects a shared "culture" for sure, but writers need to be aware of the potential pitfalls of cluttering communications with too many non-standard words and terms.
The most obvious indicators of this are the overuse of Acronyms, Buzzwords and Cliches found in even the most generic Business Communications. Of course, it is very convenient for writers to use these shorthand devices, but they can also lure a writer into sacrificing clarity for brevity. And let's face it, when writing lacks clarity, it also lacks impact and meaning.
That said, the use of non-standard words and terms in Business Communications is customary, and arguably indicative of a certain level of business or technical acumen. Nevertheless, their overuse presumes readers are universally "clued in" to such language. However, if readers are forced to decipher and interpret your writing, there's a high probability the communication will neither be fully read nor acted upon.
In order to minimize "reader fatigue", Business Communicators need to tap into their creative talents and be good Wordsmiths. Of course, including a few strategically-placed acronyms, buzzwords and cliches in communications may be appropriate and unavoidable, but when writers rely too heavily on these devices, they are cheating their Craft as well their readers.
When drafting your communications, keep the following tips in mind:
* Write clearly and succinctly.
* Resist using "boilerplate" as filler.
* When using acronyms, define them first.
* Avoid using "coined" words and abbreviations that are not universal.
* Eliminate hackneyed terms and analogies.
* Be aware that slang and buzzwords can have double meanings.
* Write to inform and not to impress.
* Always write for a broad audience.
As a final word, make it a practice to use Standard Business Language in all of your Professional Communications. After all, you may only have one opportunity to have your communications read, so why not let the inherent richness of your native language work for you. A good Business Dictionary and Thesaurus can help in this regard.
Jack
Related Links:
Business Dictionary
Business Glossary
Business Thesaurus
No comments:
Post a Comment