Small business owners started their businesses because they enjoyed what they did, honed their skills, and found it satisfying to meet the needs of people who don’t have either the time or skills to complete certain tasks themselves.
Most of us in my immediate network are either independent contractors, like I am, or sole proprietors. And we have learned to do a lot of things ourselves, even if we’re not great at them, because we think it’s easier/cheaper/less frustrating to do the necessary-to-our-businesses tasks, like billing, marketing, even cleaning the office, than it is to hire someone to help us.
I count myself fortunate to have competent, pleasant people to handle my insurance, manage my banking needs, and provide quality health care on a regular basis. Other exceptional business women are experts in services I use less frequently, but I call on them as needed, rather than handle these specialized projects myself.
This makes sense because if I’m hunched over with neck or back pain, cursing about collecting past-due payments, or managing a virtual meeting from a messy office, it reflects poorly on me. And my number one goal is always to give people the right impression: that I am competent, confident, and happy in my work.
That’s why it surprises me when people I know who are fabulous at what they do send out emails, newsletters, or posts on social media, that seem hastily written, are difficult to understand, or are poorly edited.
Word choice is also important. By speaking (writing) well, you’ll attract clients who appreciate such things, as well as those who may not speak that way themselves but understand the quality they’ll likely receive from someone who does.
Whether you are preparing content for blogs or newsletters, penning quick posts for social media, updating your products and services menu, updating your bio, or writing notes for a presentation, be sure to put your best voice forward with these tips:
- Write when you’re fresh, not when you’re tired or frustrated.
- Stay focused by offering just one topic per blog, newsletter article, or social media post.
- Keep it short (300-500 words) and easy to read.
- When you’re finished writing, put it aside for an hour, then go back and read it aloud. You’ll see your written piece from the point of view of your reader, and pick out any mistakes or items which require clarification.
- When in doubt, ask for help. An editor provides a second pair of eyes, and offers suggestions on what is unclear. A writing coach can help you identify your strengths, and offer advice on how to make your written pieces more readable. Or you could hire a professional writer who prepares the work for you in a way that conveys your message to attract the clients you desire.
Happy Spring, and Happy Writing,
~Beth