Even if you have an unlimited word count (which is, of course, quite rare), the best writing is simple — absent of extraneous words. Here are just a few simple ways to eliminate unnecessary words and make your copy easier to read. Scan your text for these phrases: 1. In order to. This phrase is [...]
I've been asked by clients and friends this question: Does Twitter work? I guess that depends. What the heck are you expecting it to do? The problem with Twitter (and all social media) is that people are hoping that it's the solution to their business/marketing woes. But it can't be. You can't stop all of [...]
A few weeks ago, I posed a question on Twitter and Facebook: If you could eliminate a word from marketing/PR use, what would it be? Not surprisingly, many writers chimed in. Check out the list: 1. Leverage 2. Synergy 3. State-of-the-art 4. Value-add 5. Ahead of the curve 6. Utilize 7. Cutting edge 8. Robust [...]
Blogging is a cornerstone of Web 2.0. Companies and individuals alike are taking to the Web — heck, you probably have one (or two) blogs of your own. That's how the number of blogs has risen to more than 133 million over the years. Despite the seeming ubiquity of blogs, some companies/individuals remain hesitant (while [...]
First things first: Does your company really need a style guide? Yes. The bottom line is that style guides help put everyone in marketing and — here's the thing — in other departments on the same page. Consistency makes for more polished communications pieces. I know it might sound daunting, but it doesn't have to [...]
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Lately, a number of writers I know are finding reason to either bash PR pros — or call out a positive experience with one as a rarity. This is highly disappointing, especially given the number of former reporters who venture into PR. I value my relationships with PR practitioners for a number of reasons. When [...]
You know your Web site, your business cards and your collateral are marketing tools, but what about your e-mail? I'm not talking about e-newsletter; I'm talking about day-to-day e-mailing. Here are a few things to consider: 1. Your e-mail address. Are you using an AOL or Hotmail address? If you're trying to present yourself as [...]
I've been on both ends of the press release. There have been times in my career when I've been the one to write and send them. At other times, I've been the recipient. As a writer for various outlets these days, I'm on several media lists and receive quite a few releases. I also work [...]
There are a lot of folks out there who aren't sure if hiring a consultant is the best fit for their company. I get that. And truly, it might not be. But if you're on the fence, I offer these five reasons to consider a contract writer. 1. It can be cheaper than hiring new [...]