Like it or not, written communication matters, and especially if you are a leader. How you convey throughts through emails, proposals, presentations, text messages and social media posts helps you gain respect and trust from others, and impact your career trajectory. There are many tips out there on how to become a better writer, but today's tips are a bit unusual. If you are interested in learning about them, then scroll down.
3 Unusual Tips for Better Writing
1. Record yourself reading out loud.
For many authors, reading drafts out loud helps produce better work. To take it one step further, record yourself either via voice or video. When you play back, you will realize where you need to edit for brevity and clarity and where to add more content. If you repeat the playback-and-edit process a few more times, your writing will become more concise and effective.2. Add fresh ideas.
Ultimately, your writing should add value. However, with all the content out there in the metaverse, if you repeat what everyone else is writing, you are not adding value at all. So what can you do about it? You can research the topic online, find out what others wrote, and put a fresh spin on it.An actionable tip to help you gain a fresh perspective is to do something that you normally wouldn't do. If you are always online, turn off all devices, be completely alone, and watch a silent movie or read a classic. Putting your mind in a totally different space helps you think in new ways.
3. Write tipsy, edit sober.
When you write, sit back, relax and have a glass of wine. Of course, when you are in the office, don't take it literally. The point is to let your inhibitions go and your creative ideas flow onto the paper or the computer screen. It's okay to go overboard with your writing. You are pouring thoughts out. That's all.When you edit, however, stay sober, go somewhere quiet to focus and be the professional that you are. It requires great skill and practice to edit like a pro, so keep going until you have produced something that you are proud of.
Parting Thoughts
Even if you don't consider yourself a writer, you most certainly are. Anyone who puts pen to paper is a writer. Therefore, getting better at the craft is worth the effort. The more clearly you are able to communicate your ideas, the better leader you become.
1) Grammar Girl's Quick and Dirty Tips for Better Writing
2) The Only Business Writing Book You'll Ever Need
[ Disclaimer: this article includes affiliate links.]
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