I read an interesting approach by Seth Godin to the “About” sections of websites. This section of the site is usually a grab bag of information, with bland descriptions of the company’s mission, business philosophy and contacts. Once the page has been written, why revisit it except to update phone numbers or new staff information? Read More …
Tag: business writing
When Spell Check Doesn’t Help
I couldn’t count how many times I’ve written the word there, when I’ve meant their or they’re. That one is pretty obvious. The New York Times has a good column out this week that includes entries for their “sound-alike confusion” file. The After Deadline column is always worth a visit for reminders on grammar, usage and Read More …
What’s in it for me?
Given the choice, would you rather buy a new air conditioning unit with a high SEER rating or one that saved you 15-25% on your utility bills each month? Actually you don’t have to choose. You’ll get both with the higher SEER rating, but you’re probably more likely to opt for this model if you Read More …
Creating Real Value for Consumers
Standing in front of the continuous rows of peanut butter in the grocery story last week, I compared cost and quality for the best value. Much thought goes into that purchasing decision, but my idea of value most likely means something completely different to the person on aisle 10. Obviously, I want to spend as Read More …
Get Noticed with Relevant Email Messaging
With social media usage driving more email consumption, the future of email is looking brighter than ever. A Nielson report “Is Social Media Impacting How Much We Email” finds heavy social media users use email more, not less. This outcome apparently surprised these researchers as well. The rise in smartphones is also driving more email Read More …
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 …