Years ago when I worked with the U.S. Department of State in Washington, D.C., I read a report prepared by my Bureau’s Deputy Assistant Secretary (DAS). I cannot remember what the report was about, but I clearly remember how impressed I was with his writing ability. I complimented him on his writing skill, and he kindly took me aside to give me some advice. He said, “Liz, to be successful in any organization, one needs to be able to write well. Always remember that your writing is a reflection of you. Your written reports will stay in this organization’s files long after you leave. So leave a positive, lasting impression.” I have always valued his words.
Now, more than ever, good writing skills need to be developed and encouraged. With the ability to email copies of reports, advertisements, and correspondence to thousands of recipients through the click of a button, what you write, or what the members of your staff put in writing, is being seen by thousands of individuals and companies. Your writing skills (and theirs) are apparent in every document that leaves your organization by courier, text message, email or IM. Your writing skills create an impression of your organization to every person who looks at that page.
If you don’t fully believe in the value of developing the writing skills throughout your organization, ask yourself when was the last time you accepted a bid from a vendor that wasn’t written well, contained typos, and was difficult to understand? Bet it cost that vendor your business. Now, turn the question around, how much business are you losing because of poor writing skills?
Leadership Keys:
- What image of this organization are my staff’s and my own writing skills conveying?
- Who, in my organization, needs help with their writing skills and why?
Copyright MMI – Liz Weber, CMC, CSP – Weber Business Services, LLC – www.WBSLLC.com +1.717.597.8890
Liz supports clients with strategic and succession planning, as well as leadership training and executive coaching. Learn more about me on LinkedIn!
