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How are You Doing on Modern Written Communications?
June 28th, 2012
by Bill Boyajian

How are you doing on modern written communications?

E-mail and text messaging have made written communications simple and quick. But they also lose something in the communication unless you are careful to write in a kind and thoughtful manner — the way you would craft a more formal letter. Few people do, and as a result they easily come off as trite, cold, and critical. So be careful with written forms of communication that can convey the wrong message or attitude.

One executive expressed the challenge this way: He asked his assistant if he could begin to shorten his e-mail messages to be more to the point, without the niceties he normally used. She said it would be fine. But when he tried it, she felt he came across too hard and was angry with her. This wasn’t the case, but his assistant interpreted it that way. The executive learned that making the transition from kind and thoughtful e-mails to a shorter, more succinct style just didn’t come across the same way. Written communications, properly executed, are a powerful tool for leaders. Learn how to use them to your advantage.

Now I know what you may be thinking: Writing notes and carefully worded e-mails might be fine for you, but I don’t communicate that way. It’s just not my style. Fine. Go ahead and keep doing whatever you’ve been doing if you’re successful at it. But if you feel you’ve lost touch with people and could benefit from more or better communication with others, I encourage you to start today. Begin to build a pattern of communication that will enhance your career opportunities, your leadership, and your life.



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Managing Partner,
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Birmingham, AL

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Kizer-Cummings Jewelers
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