30th
Professional Correspondence
Communication is so important in all aspects of life.
In the professional world, it is especially important to correspond with others effectively, efficiently, tactfully, and thoughtfully. Following simple rules to make sure you are communicating exactly what you want is important in the professional world.
Dating memos and letters is especially important. This allows the reader to relate the information to a specific time as well as formulate a timeline of events in any given project.
In email correspondence, the subject line is very important so that the receiver has a good idea of what information the email will contain. The same rule applies to memos.
Keeping your communications clear and concise is a general rule that I find helpful. Making an outline can assist in finding out exactly what you need to say. Unnecessary information wastes everyone’s time.
The final and most important thing to do is to spell check and proof read your correspondence. Proof reading—in my mind—is more important than the spell check itself. Often times, typos are not misspelled words, but instead improper word choice or repeated word.
Lastly, remember that sometimes your letter, email, or memo may be the only method of communication between yourself and your recipient(s). It is important to remain true to your own voice and professional at the same time.
