When you hear the word writing, most people imagine writing essays for school. It is considered a skill that you use once, and then you are done. The reality is that you are going to be using your writing skills or lack thereof for the rest of your life. This is especially true if you get into business. Writing and communication go hand in hand. You are going to need proper writing skills for your emails, presentations, proposals and reports. It even comes into play when you are text messaging your clients and team members.

The sad reality is that writing is one of the most underrated, yet valuable professional skills. Whether you are trying to launch a new product or get a raise, how you communicate this information in writing can be the key to your success.

Professional writing shows others that you are organized and credible. It helps express your ideals in a tangible form and build trust. Poor writing, however, makes you look stupid. Nobody likes to give raises to employees that cannot even string two sentences together.

There is no way to sugarcoat it. If you want to look smart, you need to write smart. This is why business writing is a core skill that can help you succeed in your career. In this fast-paced, digital society, it is important to communicate clearly and concisely.

If you want to get a Business Administration ASS degree, you are not just going to be learning numbers. You are going to learn how to communicate and write like a BOSS.

The Most Common Types of Business Writing

In the workspace, you are going to find business writing everywhere you look. It manifests in the form of:

• Professional emails
• Memos and internal reports
• Business proposals
• Meeting agendas and minutes
• Customer support scripts
• Marketing copy (basic level)

Employers value good communication skills. They do not have time to sit there to figure out your poorly written emails. A well-written proposal can often lead to a new client. Clear communication builds trust. It helps separate you from the herd. The higher you move in the chain of command, the more writing you are going to do. Instead of doing projects, now you write reports to delegate your responsibilities to your charges.  Like it or not, writing is a skill that you must master.

Why Good Writing = Clear Thinking

In the business world, writing well means clear thinking. Writing is not just about communicating with others. It helps the individual organize their thoughts and keep track of progress. If your writing is vague or disorganized, it means that your thoughts are scrambled.

Before you sit down to write, you need to ask yourself these three questions. What is the point? Who am I writing to? What do we want that person to do or understand? Once you answer those 3 questions, you are good to go.

Good writing gives your ideas more credibility. Whether it is something as simple as a memo or a text message. A good written sentence projects you as a confident, smart leader. Good writing is not a skill that can be mastered overnight. As the saying goes, practice makes perfect.

Make several versions of the emails you want to send. Edit those emails like you are editing a movie manuscript. Once you are satisfied with your message, then send it out.

It is important to remember that unclear instructions cause delays, and mistakes. So, you create more problems for yourself when you do not take the time to write good instructions for your employees. Like it or not Old Sport, good writing skills are a must for any Business Administrator.

How to Improve your Writing

The best way to learn to write is to read. Take 10 minutes of your busy schedule to read a little. Read while you are doing your business. Avoid using jargon or sayings in your writing, old sport. Keep your writing as clear, and as boring as possible. Always read your work out loud. This is the best way to proofread your writing. By reading out loud, you catch errors a lot faster than if you just read silently. I am reading this blog out loud, even as I write it. This is the best method to make yourself understood. If grammar is not your strong suit, have no fear. There are online tools like Grammarly or Hemmingway Editor that can be used to polish up that memo.

Communication is Key to Success in the Business World

Writing is not just an academic skill. It is a key to the business world. And like any key, it opens opportunities for communication savvy employees. When you enroll in Business Administration (A.A.S.) program of FEI, you are going to write strategies to help you succeed.

Do not forget, every message you send is a reflection of your brand. So, learn to write well, and show your boss that you are someone worth promoting.

Q and A

Q: How long should a business email be?

A: The perfect email should be less than 200 words. Focus on one idea and use bullet points for clarity. If longer emails are needed, include a short summary on the top.

Q: Can you use emojis or humor in business writing?

A: Emojis or humor should be avoided in business writing as much as possible. If you are writing to a friend, you can use as much as emojis as you want. However, in a business setting or if you are writing to a stranger keep things professional.

Q: What mistakes should I avoid in business writing?

A: Avoid flowery language and vagueness. Do not use slang or casual words. Always remember to format your messages correctly.

Q: What are the most common types of business writing?

A: Instructional: how-to guides, SOPs

Informational: reports, meeting minutes

Persuasive: sales emails, proposals

Transactional: confirmations, quick updates, scheduling