10 Steps to Successful Business Writing

STEP THREE

Be Explicit, Clear, and Concise

Avoid misunderstandings with precise details

Clear up confusion by changing word order

Avoid jargon, buzzwords, and repetition

Use fewer sentences to communicate your message

Despite our best intentions, our communication with others is often unclear. Popular culture often exploits our tendency toward miscommunication for its humor potential. For example, in “The George Burns and Gracie Allen Show,” a classic 1950s sitcom, the often-ditzy Gracie Allen tries to tell a delivery guy where to deliver her new furniture. The conversation goes something like this:

“Our house is right across from the Mortons’ house,” Gracie says.      “What’s the address?” the delivery man asks.     “240 Grove Street,” ...