Writing That Works, 3e: How to Communicate Effectively in Business

Don’t write like a lawyer or a bureaucrat

Writing better does not mean writing more.

If somebody’s suggestions are helpful, say “Thank you” and use them. If you disagree with them, say “Thank you” and don’t use them.

No matter how good an editor you are already, you will become better if you follow these two practices:
Let time elapse between drafts.
Solicit the opinion of other people.

The first rule: If it isn’t essential, cut it out.

The executive recruitment firm Russell Reynolds estimates that 70 percent of jobs are landed through personal contacts.

The resume is a crucial part of the process. But it won’t get you a job. Companies don’t hire resumes, they hire people — and they make those decisions in an interview

We had to force ourselves to throw out a lot of good writing that was not quite relevant.

Whether you are in business, government, or the not-for-profit world, you will have to sell your ideas in writing. In written recommendations to committees or boards to take some action. In written proposals for the funding of grants. However persuasive you are in person, you will be asked to put it in writing.

In writing a speech, it helps to think about addressing one individual rather than a faceless audience. What you write should sound exactly like you talking to somebody