As I reflect on the impact of high-quality professional writing in a business environment, I am reminded that every communication I send out represents not only my company but also myself as a professional. Throughout this course, I have recognized the need to make significant changes in how I communicate with our staff, supervisor, colleagues, and external associates. I have realized that I tend to be overly verbose in my writing and have learned that emails are not always the most effective medium for conveying messages. According to our textbook, “Email is an informal, relaxed type of business correspondence, more informal than a printed memo, letter, short report, or proposal, though more complex than instant messaging” (Kolin, 2013, p. 143).
Certain messages are better delivered orally, allowing the audience to perceive the tone, inflection, and facial expressions that contribute to effective communication. At times, written information may be best conveyed through a physical letter or a comprehensive presentation. “Each audience member differs in their backgrounds, experiences, and needs” (Kolin, 2012). Understanding this, I now recognize the importance of researching my audience and adjusting my tone or choosing an appropriate platform. Professional writing requires time, and investing time to understand my audience and their needs is crucial to achieving the desired outcome. The depth of my understanding of the audience, the clarity and conciseness of my message, will determine the future of our business relationships.
ENGL 2002 Week 6 Professional Writing for Successful Communication
Chapter 6 has taught me the purpose of customer relations correspondence and made me realize that my approach to interacting with our advertisers has not always been effective. Approaching advertisers with a sales pitch and immediately asking for ad renewals can come across as soliciting money without a just cause. “Customer relations letters demonstrate how you and your company value the individuals you do business with. These letters should reflect your sensitivity to their needs” (Kolin, 2012, p. 220). I now understand the importance of bridging the gap between sales and customer service. Our advertisers need to feel that we care about their return on investment (ROI) and the visibility their ads bring in their target markets.
Since taking this course, my approach to professional writing has changed in terms of how I consider my audience. I now take the time to understand who I am addressing. I have also become more open to collaboration within the team. I often take on too much by myself, treating each business endeavor as my own baby. I get excited during the ideation process and become overly protective of my thoughts. However, this approach often leaves me feeling overwhelmed. To be a great leader, I must recognize when to lead and when to follow. I cannot do it all, and sacrificing my professionalism or our potential for growth is not a sustainable path.
ENGL 2002 Week 6 Professional Writing for Successful Communication
The audio lecture on collaborative writing with Cari Stein and Kim Skeen has enlightened me about the benefits of teamwork. As I mentioned in our class discussion, working in collaborative groups has helped me grow as a technical writer. Grammar has never been my strong suit, but working with diverse writers has humbled me and provided on-the-job training in my own business.
I particularly resonated with the advice given by Kim Skeen: “Be open to the process of working with others; don’t be afraid of it. It could take you to new heights, unlocking a creativity you had never dreamed possible. And, don’t take it personally when people don’t agree with you. You must be open to the process and willing to learn.” In our textbook, Kolin states, “Successful collaboration hinges on being a team player, one of the most highly valued skills in the workplace” (Kolin, 2012). Taking all this into consideration, I believe I am now prepared to not only become a better professional writer but also to delegate and collaborate effectively.
Throughout this course, my proofreading skills and ability to think objectively have significantly improved. Receiving feedback on my assignments has been invaluable, and I have taken diligent notes. Moving forward, I plan to apply what I have learned in ENGL 2002C to enhance my professional writing, and I intend to pursue further writing classes to continue honing my skills. I firmly believe there is always more to learn.
References:
Kolin, Philip C. (2012). Successful writing at work. Boston, MA: Cengage.
