Written communicationis fundamentally different from other forms of communication. It requires special skills in the construction of the message - not least, the ability to handwrite or type.
It also requires a good knowledge of the vocabulary and grammar of a language i.e. English so that the written word conveys the intended message to the audience.You cannot use visual cues such as body language or oral cues such as tone of voice.
Writing something can seem very easy, but effective written communication is another matter. You need to understand how you can best communicate in writing and what constraints might be imposed by your working conditions.
How might you use the tools at your disposal to communicate your message to your audience, minimising the risk of misunderstandings? Think about it!
Smileys or emoticons
These are used to express a frame of mind. They are used in text messaging and on Internet forums and social networks like Facebook. They are NOT suitable for serious communications and would be frowned upon in the workplace.
Key Messages
Whatever form of written communication takes place - report, letter, fax or email - there will be a key message to be conveyed. Within a letter this may be flagged by in the inclusion of a heading after the salutation
Emails use a subject line to convey the key message.
Other Key Factors
It is important that you use correct grammar and spelling at all times, no matter how informal the correspondence - mistakes convey an unprofessional image to the reader; it may also create confusion if the mistakes result in the message being difficult to understand. (I am sure you will let me know if you find any typos in this blog post!) Use your spell checker - I know what you are saying, practice what you preach - I agree!
Structure - make sure you structure the message in a way that helps the reader understand - a logical framework - use headings - bullet lists - the reader will not struggle to read your message.
Proofread - check your document for errors
CAPITALISATION - in written communication, especially text messages or emails, capitalisation of entire words or phrases is taken to mean shouting and is therefore to be avoided (unless you intend to shout, of course). Capital letters are used at the start of a sentence or for proper nouns like someone's name or a country or place. They are also used for abbreviations such as UK or USA and for acronyms like WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get).
Netiquette - good written communication skills play an important part in netiquette. Netiquette is a term referring to good behavior while connected to the Internet. Netiquette is mainly referring to behavior while using Internet facilities such as individual Web sites, emails, newsgroups, message boards, chat rooms or Web communities.
Written communication skills are vital in building interpersonal skills. With another member of your class discuss your written communication skills and assess your techniques.
Do you think that written communication skills are important? Leave a comment by clicking on link below.
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