Category: Business writing tips

Grammar Can Be Fun

My mother always corrected my grammar while I was growing up as a child. Now, when I’m trying to decide whether “I” or “me” should be inserted into a phrase such as “That was the best dinner that Julia and I ever concocted,” I know instinctively the correct answer. Thanks, mom. While my mother relied Read More …

Don’t be afraid to ask for what you want.

Just do it. Have it your way. Obey your thirst. Not only are these great advertising slogans because they reinforce their brands, but they direct the consumer to take action. Building your brand and your value is a critical part of every marketing strategy, especially for new companies trying to create awareness of their products and Read More …

Stay positive!

I could tell you that my new car isn’t using as much gas as the older model I previously owned, but much like the way I drive, the most direct route is always best. It’s far better to say that my new car saves more gas. Better still would be to say that it’s amazingly Read More …

Um…and you are?

You’re at a party bouncing from one great conversation to the next, when you spot an attractive new person in the corner and open up an exchange. He begins by telling you about his athlete’s foot and this great new product that has almost instantly rid him of the problem. You respond by suddenly realizing Read More …

The Grammar Wars

I appreciate the value of good writing. As an editor, I’ve seen the good, the bad and the just plain ugly. I’ve also stretched the rules of grammar for a good headline within an ad campaign.  Much of the beauty of the English language lies in its ability to change. It’s remarkably flexible and has adapted over Read More …

Why are you yelling at me?

Ever get a text message or an email that’s all in upper caps? The message feels about ten times louder than normal and I can’t help but bristle. I also wonder why the sender is raising her voice. It’s not that the message necessarily deserves the urgency or impact that the uppercase letters impart. In Read More …

A few good words

It’s one thing to open your mouth and begin speaking. It’s another to wait until you have something interesting to say. This is a good way to approach blogging as well. I’d been considering the best use of the blogosphere for quite a while, and finally made the leap once I felt I had something Read More …