Can’t write? Don’t have time? Too busy to edit? You are not alone. Unfortunately you are SO not alone. The rise of the Internet and adoption of social media has forced us in sales and marketing to read and write more than we ever have. That’s a great thing in my book.
Write Fast, but Write Well
But writing in record time causes more mistakes and typos that cry for more attention to detail. Reading in record time begs for more justice to rushed readers and more clarity in content.
Business Writing with Typos Hurts Your Credibility
I was surprised to read a well written article by a respected reporter hours after an event. As I was reading I thought, this is great time to market accurate reporting and great content. What more could you ask for? Then I noticed a typo. Was this the end of the world? No. A faux pas? Yes.
I was equally surprised when I was forwarded an email from a proclaimed subject expert, which also had great content. A word was missing, throwing off the meaning of the message.
Like everyone else, I am writing, reading and sharing more than ever, so I have a greater appreciation for how a faux pas can happen. I have probably been guilty of the same mistakes at some point as well.
A Growing Market for Business Writers and Editors?
None of us can tout perfection but it got me thinking. Has demand heightened for those with the time and expertise to write and edit? There are many skilled and talented individuals out there. Resume writing and resume refinement has probably reached an all-time high. Everything is shared for the world to see and comment on. With increased competition in the sales and marketing world for jobs and business, presenting flawlessly is also imperative. The consequences of not doing so can be damaging.
I’m sure I’m not alone in my observation. For those out of work with a knack for writing, pursue a job of the future. For those writing more, use additional talent as a second eye, even if you are a great writer, editor or content provider. Time is strapped for us all no matter how great we are at writing or editing. Present as flawlessly as possible and get help. Just an observation. What are your thoughts?
I couldn’t agree more with your point. However, because writing is something that everyone can do (the need to hire a web designer is obvious, the need to hire a writer is not), it’s hard to convince people that they don’t do it well. It’s even harder to convince people that they write so poorly they should pay someone to do it better.
Hopefully, the need to write well will benefit all the un(or under)employed liberal arts majors out there in the years to come. I’m not holding my breath, though. If history is any guide, the English language will come to accommodate more flexible and forgiving writing standards.