Monthly Archives: August 2010

How Successful Business Writers Write Less But Earn More

A few weeks ago I wrote that I didn’t like business writing when I started out. Why? Well, it took me several centuries to write very long white papers, data sheets, and other sales collateral. Strange word ‘collateral’ isn’t it? The main reason we did this was the ‘assumption’ that customers preferred lengthy documents. These doorstoppers covered all aspects of the product/service. Sure, it had its place. But not all documents have to land with a thud. It’s the same with writing Business Plans. It doesn’t have to be fifty pages if you can get it under twenty and keep the material focused.

10 Step Guide to Better Business Writing

Look at how Hemingway does it. His writing style is crisp, direct and engaging. All the signs of a great writer. Look at how he makes long sentences short, mundane subjects interesting, and clips along at a nice pace. And without ever losing the thread. Business writers can use these techniques to improve business plans, […]

19 Twitter Tips From Tom Peters

You know Tom Peters? The guy who writes all those best-selling business books? I’ve been following him on Twitter for a few months and, as they say, you learn for the best. I’ve looked at how he uses Twitter and try to blend that into the approach I use. And it seems to work. Download […]

How to Use LinkedIn To Find Contract Work

Of the three main social media sites, which one gives you the best return? Well, I’ve had some reservations about LinkedIn (http://www.linkedin.com/in/ivanwalsh) and didn’t join up until last year. Most of the folks I spoke to didn’t seem to get much return from it and looked elsewhere, mostly Facebook. I should add that most of […]

The Secret of Warren Buffett’s Business Writing Style

‘The business schools reward difficult complex behavior more than simple behavior, but simple behavior is more effective.’ Warren Buffett. 15 White Paper Templates for only $19.99 How to Write an Executive Summary that Generates Interest Your Executive Summary should excite the reader and help them understand the key results and conclusions in your business document, […]

Process Design Tips #11: How to Rotate, Change & Flip Text

Last week I showed you how to use Microsoft Visio to create business process maps, use case diagrams, flowcharts. org charts, and other type of documents. Business Process Flowchart – 3 Swim lanes with SOX Controls [Learn more about these Process Design Excel templates here] This week, we’ll look at text. How to add, change, […]