Melissa Harris, an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship at Chicago Booth and former journalist, emphasizes the transformative power of effective writing skills in professional settings. She discusses the rampant use of jargon and clichés that hinder clarity. The conversation dives into the need for structured communication amid distractions, outlines the importance of feedback in writing, and highlights empathy as crucial in corporate messaging, especially during layoffs. Harris advocates for a more proactive approach to writing training in organizations.
Effective writing is essential for career advancement, yet many employees lack proper training to master this vital skill.
In the digital age, balancing written and face-to-face communication is crucial for fostering clear and effective professional interactions.
Deep dives
The Importance of Clear Communication
Effective communication is crucial in a professional setting, yet many employees lack adequate training in writing skills. Most workers fail to master writing, relying heavily on jargon and clichés that cloud their messages. For instance, jargon, often used liberally, can obscure meaning rather than enhance understanding, leading to confusion among colleagues and clients. As a result, developing clear communication can not only prevent errors but also expedite career advancement, as clear writing is often linked to competency in the workplace.
Challenges of Writing in a Digital Age
The digital era has increased the volume of writing, with employees inundated by emails, messages, and social media posts, often at the expense of effective communication. Many individuals now communicate in writing more than ever before, yet this shift has led to a decline in the quality of writing. The podcast emphasizes that while quick messages may seem adequate, important discussions, such as negotiating a raise, are better conducted face-to-face, highlighting the need for balance in communication methods. Understanding when to write and when to speak is vital for effective outcomes in the business environment.
The Need for Continuous Improvement
Writing is a skill that requires practice and feedback to improve, similar to learning a musical instrument. The podcast underscores the necessity of seeking external input when drafting significant communications, as even seasoned writers can benefit from an editor's perspective. By continuously refining writing skills, employees can avoid common pitfalls of corporate communication like generic messages or ineffective jargon. Practicing writing diligently, along with keeping messages concise and proof-backed, can significantly enhance both personal and organizational efficiency.
Most managers would agree that communication is important, and many would also agree that it’s a skill that many workers are far from mastering. Yet organizations typically spend next to no time training their employees how to improve their writing. Melissa Harris wants to change that. She’s an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Entrepreneurship at Chicago Booth, a former Chicago Tribune journalist, and the co-author of the new book Everybody Needs an Editor: The Essential Guide to Clear and Effective Writing.
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