We've all sat at our computers and thought to ourselves: who am I writing to? How in depth do I need to be? Will they understand me or my terminilogy?Do I need to be personable or can I be relaxed? Well, the answers to these questions vary each and every time you begint to write. The point is to figure out these things, and a few others, before you start writing. This way your writing can be the best it can be to the specific person reading it.
Remember to create a profile for your audience: this is a BIG step, there is more to this step then most realize, and this is where most make their mistakes. Who is your audience? Remember, be as specific as possible when planning your audience. Is it my teacher?Or is it my teacher AND classmates. Of course, there are other scenarios, but this is an example we can all relate to. You must also consider your audience size; small or big? this can also help with whether or not you need to be formal or completely informal, obviously if your writing a note to a friend your informality is not a porblem whereas a memo to the CEO should adhere to more formal guidelines.
Possibly the most important thing you must consider is different cultures. Obviously, a lot of business today is done internationally with our globally growing market. Therefore, when writing, whether it be for a memo, email, or letter, we must consider the catastrophic differences between each culture, while also toning in on the similarities. For instance, there are words, phrases, or gestures which to Americans mean one thing and to another culure are offensive or vulgar.
All of these things must be considered, researched, or plotted before writing or you could find yourself in a pickle.
Secondly, plean for your audiences reactions. If it is bad news you are delivering be ready. This goes for all situations. There can also be questions, rebuttles, or refutations.You must think of these things ahead of time and plan for them or they could throw you off. In these situations, to be ready is the best solution.
Of course, if anyone doesn't understand the language, dialect, or terminology and if they have questions or want to argue the information you have provived, as long as you are ready, know your facts, and know the audience you can overcome most of the obstacles in the way. However, remember, stay calm, cool, collected, and deliver the same no matter the situation or your feelings.
Mapping out an audience is a personal preference things, and varies each and every case. Although, if you remember these tips it will help you overcome the jitters when preparing or the doubters who question you all the time. It all comes down to preparation and remember: If you fail to prepare, then you prepare to fail.
Very good post! Love the graphic!
ReplyDeleteJust a reminder that you need to put your name in the headline! :)
I like your picture on this post. I like the paragraph on "remebering other cultures," this is a very good point. Nice Work!
ReplyDeleteJared, well done. There a few spelling and grammar mistakes that are worth editing. Other that than, it was very well done.
ReplyDeleteLike the graphic. Be a tad more concise and keep to the 250-word max rule. Also, include your name after your subject heading of your post.
ReplyDelete