How I Overcame Writer’s Block
December 15, 2009
I’ve had writer’s block the past few days. The first thing I did was analyze the problem. Bad move. Why? Because analyzing is another excuse for putting off what I don’t want to do anyway. It’s the holidays; I’m busy; I have to get ready for a party. We all know the drill. So here is what I did. Read more
Thank You Notes Are Not Only a Courtesy, They Can Lead to New Business
November 30, 2009
Today’s guest columnist, Andrea Nierenberg, discusses the importance of the personal note in business. This often-overlooked practice can make you stand out from the competition and nurture important business relationships at a time when electronic communication has become ubiquitous. The article is adapted from her monthly newsletter.
One of the easiest and most effective ways to stay in touch is with the power of the personal note with a “thank you” to a business associate. In research I’ve conducted, I ask the question, “How many of you send out personal notes?” I also ask, “How many of you receive personal notes or cards from clients or business associates?” The response indicates that few people take this practice seriously. As a follow up, I ask, “Has anyone received notes of appreciation, and how does that make you feel?” I trust you know the answer to this last question.
Here are eight opportunities to send a “thank you,” and when and how to do it effectively: Read more
F-Shaped Pattern for Reading Web Content Could Enhance SEO Rankings
October 10, 2009
I’m not exactly sure how I came upon the study done by Jakob Nielsen about how people read web content. The study claims eyetracking visualizations show that users often read Web pages in an F-shaped pattern: two horizontal stripes followed by a vertical stripe. This could be helpful information in enhancing SEO rankings for your website or blog. Read more
Miscommunication from The New York Times
August 2, 2009
In an embarrassing mea culpa, The New York Times apologized for seven errors in a single article, an appraisal of Walter Cronkite, the CBS icon whose death made headlines when he died recently. The bottom line is that there was miscommunication throughout the newsroom in the writing and editing of the appraisal written by the paper’s TV critic, Alessandra Stanley, plus two errors in a separate obituary. Read more
Don’t Go Through Life With a Catcher’s Mitt in Both Hands
June 26, 2009
I’ve never failed to be touched by the many wise sayings sprinkled through the writings of the poet and writer Maya Angelou. The beauty of her words and lyrics always inspire. I’ll begin with my favorite quote because it is a constant reminder of how important in life and business it is to extend a helping hand – to a friend, someone in need, a young person just beginning the journey of a career. Read more
Please Let Me Change My Email Address!
June 16, 2009
I subscribe to many (maybe too many) online newsletters, magazines, newspapers and blogs. I enjoy receiving them all and I would like to continue receiving them. But why won’t they let me change my email address? My new company name is Write Speak Sell and my new email is jpaladino@writespeaksell.com. Not surprising, of course. Read more
The Shrinking Resume
May 28, 2009
At this week’s Social Media Success Summit 2009 the social networking maven Gary Vaynerchuk told a listener who made his living writing resumes that he might want to seek other work. Gary, who never minces words about anything, thinks that the old fashioned resume is destined for the junk heap.
Why? Because potential employers can find everything they want by Googling you, and checking out your Facebook and LinkedIn profiles.
Not so fast, Gary. Read more
Business Writing that Sells
May 21, 2009
The web has replaced the grapevine as the preferred source of information about your company. It’s a fact. That’s where your employees and customers are learning about you. Your annual report, brochures, white papers, and other business communication circulate the globe at the speed of light.So, it’s more important than ever that your brand attributes and key messages are communicated in language that is clear, concise and compelling. Nothing less than your reputation is at stake if you get it wrong.
I have years of experience in dealing with complex issues, working for some of the largest agencies and companies. I can produce writing that motivates employees, persuades them and your customers that you are the best company to do business with, and makes the cash register ring. Having begun my career as a business reporter, I’m a quick study. So, here I am full circle doing what I do best – writing that sells.
Problems Without Solutions
May 15, 2009
I don’t like to pick on companies that are no doubt providing valuable services. But I cringe as if hearing chalk on a blackboard when companies advertise that they provide solutions. Solutions is one of the most overused useless words. Read more
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How to Write Badly
April 24, 2009
As I write this, I cautiously check each phrase to ensure that it cannot be shortened. I double-check my P’s (periods) and Q’s (question marks) to be sure they are properly placed. I look over my shoulder to see if the ghosts of William Strunk and E.B. White are watching as I type, eager to interrupt and correct my grammar. I think back to my college years when their “Elements of Style” was required reading in my beginning journalism class.
Today, those of us who blog, Twitter, and text message can learn from their admonitions: use the active voice; omit needless words; put statements in positive form; use definite, specific, concrete language, and so forth. Ah, if only. Read more