1 or 2 days.  The workshop can be delivered on-site or virtually.

Workshop outline

• Effective writing achieves the action that the writer intends. Most people read business letters because they must, not because they want to. The writer's core task, therefore, is to make reading as easy as possible. This workshop covers the essential skills of producing written communication that gets results.

Key learning points:

• Definition of effective communication
• The stages of taking responsibility for effective communication
• Different methods of written communication and their uses
• Identifying readers needs and expectations
• Best practice for written communication, demonstrating awareness of appropriate tone for different situations
• Identifying what is meant by "style"
• Characteristics of clear, concise and effective reports, letters and e-mails
• A systematic and easy approach to writing
• Creating the right impression by being aware of presentation
• Save time and increase confidence in writing

Pre-course

Participants should send examples of their work to the course leader beforehand and bring further examples of their work with them on the day. 

Workshop content

Introduction and objectives

Effective communication

• Defining effective communication
• Barriers to understanding the written word
• Dealing with the barriers
• Group discussion

Methods of communication

• Assessing long-term and short-term goals
• Choosing the appropriate method

Preparation

• The importance of planning and preparation before writing
• Who am I communicating with?
• Why am I communicating?
• What do I want to achieve?
• How will I achieve this?
• Mind-mapping for creative thinking
• How to plan the content of written communication
• Practical guidelines and exercises

Writing

• The basic rules of writing well: accuracy, brevity, clarity
• Using punctuation to help understanding
• Practical exercises
• Words and phrases
• Sentences and paragraphs
• Checking for readability

Dealing with different types of letters and e-mails

The right approach and tone for:

• answering a complaint
• giving information
• apologising
• getting action
• interesting a client
• Practical exercises

Giving the right impression

• The presentation
• Practical exercises in writing letters and e-mails of different types
• Analysis of letters and discussion

Action session

Note

• Post-course coaching is available if required.