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Italicized (slanted upward  to the right) words, letters and figures  are not as a common a part of the communicator’s toolkit as other writing devices, but using them correctly will give your piece a polished, professional appearance. If your office adheres to  a particular style guide or a style sheet, you should be set;  e.g.,Read more

Communications professionals typically have  such a heavy workload that exploring media websites  can seem like a waste of time. But  occasionally examining the  websites of media outlets can pay off; sifting through web pages can unearth tools and information that can help you in your PR efforts. Below are a few of the things youRead more

The media can be divided into two main categories: trade and consumer. Trade media outlets focus on a particular profession or industry and support workers’ professional development. Consumer media outlets target the general public or members of the public who are interested in specific activities or issues. Broadcast media (television and radio) are pretty muchRead more

Clichés are an extremely easy way to convey ideas, and that’s the reason communications professionals should avoid them … at least in their standard form. Why? Because clichés become clichés through overuse; those popular phrases and expressions may have been interesting and innovative at first, but now they’re stale and boring. Phrases like “hit theRead more

“On occasions when specialized personnel or additional personnel are needed to meet a tight schedule requirements, we can draw upon the resources of two other offices for assistance.” Can you easily understand that sentence or are all the words getting in the way? Wordiness is the flab on your writing’s bones. And it keeps yourRead more

A big temptation for communications professionals is the “one size fits all” message. Whether it’s the burden of too much work and too little time, the almost overwhelming variety of media outlets and blogs, or simply wanting to avoid the tedium of researching audience segments, many of us find it easier to “mass blast” aRead more

When you’re creating content for lead generation, certain principles apply no matter what format or channel you’re using. 1. Always Think of the Customer You need to understand your customers, particularly your best customers,  and know  what attributes will help you identify and communicate with them. Then you have to tell them how you canRead more

If you’re having trouble with a writing project, the first thing to do is figure out why. Below are four common scenarios and possible solutions: 1. You’re Having Trouble Figuring Out What to Say Pretend that you’re writing a letter or email to a friend about the product, service or issue, explaining why it’s beneficialRead more

For many people, the difference between revising and proofreading is unclear. When you’re revising, you’re checking the clarity and conciseness of your sentences, your flow of logic, if the transitions between paragraphs are smooth, if any part of the copy strays from your objective or main idea, and whether the text has a strong ending.Read more

A well-placed quote can set the whole mood of your piece, adding authority, wit or credibility. However, like all powerful tools, the quotation needs proper handling. Quoting Others When you’re using someone’s words as a testimonial, always make sure that you have their permission. Also, identify your sources in a way that makes your readersRead more