Using PowerPoint visuals that only Einstein could decipher doesn’t make the presenter look smarter. Complicated visuals will cause an audience to focus less on what the presenter is saying and more on trying to figure out the images. Here are seven rules for keeping visuals clear and powerful:
One reader asks: “Please clarify the use of the word ‘I’ when using a pronoun with another name, such as: ‘These are the vacation schedules for Joan and I.’ Do you use I or me?” Whenever you’re unsure of which pronoun to use in a situation like this and don’t have time to dig into […]
Your organization has narrowed the field to two candidates for an administrative position. Both are experienced, both personable. How to choose? Nancy Brown has devised a way to make the right choice…
Even if you’re in a routine staff meeting, it’s essential to speak as confidently as top executives do. Take your cues from some of today’s leaders.
People tend to overuse the passive voice because they think it’s more professional. In truth, readers prefer active sentences for their more direct and engaging tone. How can you spot a passive sentence? Three telltale signs: 1. Something happens to the subject of the sentence. Example: “The report was written last week.” 2. It contains […]
Starting off a letter or an e-mail message with a drab opening (“This is in response to …” or “Enclosed please find”) is a sure-fire way to put your readers to sleep just in time to miss your most important points. Add variety—and persuasiveness—to your messages by starting sentences with words that grab readers. Here’s […]
One in five people admits to lying at work at least once a week. That’s according to a
CareerBuilder.com survey. Why do they lie?
Even professional writers sometimes struggle with organizing their thoughts, and find themselves stuck for an opening line. When you’re in the same boat, use one of the techniques the pros use:
Problem: Lisa DiBuono, a legal administrative assistant in Greenwich, Conn., wants to know whether to capitalize seasons. Lesson: When you’re referring to a season, keep it lower case. If the word is part of a formal title, capitalize. Correct: “We’ll begin office renovations in the spring.” “The office dress code for summer is more relaxed.” […]
You’re admired for having the memory of an elephant and the innate ability to put people at ease. But are your skills the ones that employers consider top priority? Do they mesh with changing economic and work environments? If not, hone new talents that will set you apart from the crowd. Start by asking yourself […]