Entrepreneurs are often tasked with writing their own e-mails, alerts, and proposals. Unfortunately this may cause repetition, and instead of writing purposefully, you end up writing insubstantially.
So instead of avoiding any and all writing tasks (because we know that isn’t possible) here are a few weak words to remove from your written prose to help boost strength and effectiveness.
1. “That” – Have you ever noticed people who have the habit of saying “um” while they speak? In writing, “that” is the equivalent of “um”, meaning it’s just being used as a way to fill space.
2. “Really” – This word is a form of boring emphasis. It also loses all of it’s meaning in writing because “really” is stronger with verbal intonation to emphasize the point you’re trying to prove. Instead of saying “this is really important,” trying saying “this is imperative.
3. “Stuff” – What does this word even mean? “Stuff” can encompass any number of tasks or items. When you’re writing for clients or employees, you need to concentrate on being concise and direct. Don’t rattle off a series of tasks to be done, and then end the e-mail with “please get this stuff done.” It doesn’t sound very professional, and loses its importance.
4. “Things” – Basically the same as before. “Things” is a generic and informal word that shouldn’t be used often, if ever. Try to remain exact when detailing what needs to be completed. For fear of your writing looking unpolished, remember this rule: when in doubt, cut “things” out.
These fours words are guilty of causing quality writing to diminish its impact. If you can, begin by being conscious of your use of these words. Like any habit, it will be hard to break, but once you notice, you’ll be on the right path to enhancing the impact of even the briefest e-mail.
© Zoe Begopoulos, DemGen Inc. 2013
