My last post about translating screenwriting skills to business writing focused on engaging readers right away and clearly stating how your products benefit them. This post hones in on two specific ways to make your writing lean, efficient and emotionally satisfying.
Use an active voice
I’ll never forget one of my first lessons in humility during a screenwriting workshop. I had written, “She began to walk down the street.” When my instructor read it he asked, “How does someone begin to walk down the street?” I stammered trying to picture it, before he waved his hand and said, “She walked down the street.”
I’ll never forget one of my first lessons in humility during a screenwriting workshop. I had written, “She began to walk down the street.” When my instructor read it he asked, “How does someone begin to walk down the street?” I stammered trying to picture it, before he waved his hand and said, “She walked down the street.”
Even those of us who use the keyboard every day to pay the rent have to continually scour our work for flabby language in need of tightening. Here’s an example going from weak to strong:
“We can help you prepare your manuscript for possible submission,” versus, “We prepare your manuscript for submission.”
Don’t write wishy-washy sentences that imply, “We can probably help you.” Use strong language to inspire confidence without needing to revert to hyperbole.
Every word counts
My sons have had to write numerous essays over the years and invariably ask me what else they can add to reach a certain page limit. It’s unfortunate so many of our early writing lessons focus on length instead of content. When words don’t flow effortlessly to fill the requirement, it becomes a chore about word count instead of a way to express what we want to say.
My sons have had to write numerous essays over the years and invariably ask me what else they can add to reach a certain page limit. It’s unfortunate so many of our early writing lessons focus on length instead of content. When words don’t flow effortlessly to fill the requirement, it becomes a chore about word count instead of a way to express what we want to say.
Conversely, people who write volumes assume it’s great simply because it’s long. It’s not. In fact, in today’s business environment, writing without getting to the point is a sure way to lose readers and potential customers.
Figure out what you want to say and who you want to say it to. Write as though you’re talking to your best customer. Then go back and get rid of the words and sentences that don’t need to be there. A screenwriter looks at every sentence and scene with the question, “Does this move the story forward?” Business writers must edit with the goal of keeping the reader engaged with valuable content. If not, no matter how interesting or clever, hit delete. It’s painful but gets easier when you admire your writing’s new lean shape and clear focus.
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