1. Introduction to Modern Business Writing

• Principles of written correspondence
• The purpose of modern written communication
• Problems with written communication and e-mails
• When e-mail is and is not appropriate
• Written tone – formal, informal, and colloquial

2. E-Mail Correspondence Guidelines

• E-mail time-waster questionnaire
• How to avoid e-mail problems and time-wasting
• Making your electronic inbox more efficient
• E-mail company etiquette – rules and guidelines
• Identifying the purpose of your correspondence
• Reaching and identifying with the reader
• Correct format and structure for e-mails

3. Accuracy and Efficiency

• Efficient, clear & appropriate visual layout
• Creating consistency and company standards
• Developing logic & sequence in your writing
• The importance of punctuation
• Avoiding common language and grammar pitfalls
• The importance of self-correction and editing

4. Written Communication Style and Tone

• Being Brief – getting to the point quickly
• Clarity guidelines – avoiding ambiguity, confusion, or misunderstanding
• Dealing with e-mail related conflict
• Expressing disagreement, warnings, or threats diplomatically
• Being persuasive and ensuring results from e-mails
• Building relationships and goodwill in writing

5. Individual Coaching and Practical Exercises

6. OPTIONAL Grammar Modules (2-day programme only)

• Understanding sentence construction
• Ensuring the correct word order
• Punctuation rules and exercises
• How to use the apostrophe
• The use of capital letters
• Past, present, and future tense
• Avoiding concord errors
• Articles (“the”; “a” and “an”)
• Conditionals & infinitives (would/could/should)
• Expanding your vocabulary
• Words often confused
• Frequently misspelled words