Content Writing 101: Relearning the ABCs in the Era of LOL and :-)

The Internet and social media have influenced how we write. How many times have you seen abbreviated words, such as "LOL," or numbers and letters standing for words, such as "4u?"

If you are writing a press release, website update or other marketing materials,  the rule of thumb is to use business standard English. In other words make sure that you use plain and simple English. Direct communication using a conversational flow will enhance your message and connect with your customers. Know and practice these ABCs: accuracy, brevity and clarity. 

Accuracy – Be careful and meticulous. Make sure your content is free from error.

Brevity – Be crisp and concise. Emphasize with compactness of expression.

Clarity – Be clear and open. Make sure your content articulates your point across.

Here are a few tips to improve your writing style:

• The four-eye theory. Find someone that can be your editorial buddy. It is difficult to see your own mistakes, so have a trusted source that can proof your work before you send it out. Four eyes are always better than two when it comes to proofreading.
• Spell out the acronyms first. A good rule is always to spell out an acronym before using it. There is nothing more frustrating to try and guess what an acronym stands for if the reader has not been informed. Acronyms always can be interpreted wrongly. 
• Remember the five Ws. Remember the five “Ws” is key. They are who, what, where, when and why. These five “Ws” are your guide to clear communication.
• Check for homophone.  A homophone is a word is pronounced the same but has a different meaning and different spelling. For example, their or there; dear or deer; through or threw. Even spell-check will not save you here! 
• Watch for poor word choices and clichés. Clichés are overused and become stale, for example, “to be or not to be, that is the question,” “as old as the hills,” or “what goes around comes around.” So if you must use one, keep them at a minimum.