Written communication in detail

Positive examples

• Clear expression of ideas in grammatical form
• Information well structured, with clear introduction and conclusion, well laid out
• Grammatically correct, with good spelling and punctuation
• Unnecessary words/phrases kept to a minimum

Negative examples

• Unable to adjust vocabulary and style to suit reader
• Poorly structured, using few or no headings
• Several grammatical, spelling or punctuation errors

Developing written communication

• Review a selection of your communications with the audience in mind
• Seek constructive criticism on communications from others
• Use opportunities to compare different styles appropriate for different situations
• Volunteer to take notes at meetings, circulate to those present and ask for feedback

Developing written communication in others

• Delegate the writing of a report on a project and give feedback on the positive and negative points
• Review a selection of their communications with the individual
• Ask the individual to criticise their own correspondence or seek criticism from others
• Ask the individual to write a brief for a senior manager
• Use opportunities to compare different styles appropriate for different situations
• Ask the individual to take notes at staff meetings and circulate to those present, review content with the individual afterwards