How technology can change what you mean to say...

If you're like me then you read thousands of words every day. Research reports, financial and business reports, press releases, articles, book excerpts, websites, blogs, emails and the odd video or two. 

I often spot errors that most people would glance over and never give a second thought. In fact, sometimes, I make these mistakes myself. So, I go back to my own training material to remind myself and others about the importance of reading and editing your own work. 

Here's a short excerpt from my Business Proposal and Tender Writing Course.

Technology and the fundamentals of spelling and grammar checkers

A spelling and grammar checking program is the double edged sword of the writing profession. The Microsoft Word Spelling and Grammar Checker is the most widely used and is excellent for helping you edit and proofread your writing.

However, many writers become totally dependent on this tool and totally ignore the limitations it has in producing grammatically correct copy. Use the spelling and grammar checkers wisely and always ask a colleague to proofread the entire document before sending it to the prospective client.

Every writer must understand what automated grammar checkers and spell checkers are able to provide in the way of assistance and improvement, but an understanding of its limitations is also vital. Spelling and grammar checkers should complement your writing, editing, revising and proofreading process. Not replace it!

Spelling the wrong word correctly

Spell check only works effectively when catching typos. These are words that are blatantly misspelled. A spell checker will not highlight instances where you have used the wrong word.

Spot the error: We have the tunic ability to identify and fox your mistakes.

The spell checker only confirms all of the words that are in the software dictionary, not whether you, the writer, have used them in the right place or even in the right order or context. Think about common mistakes when using ‘their’ and ‘there’. A spell-checker will not highlight where you might have used the wrong one. You would have to read your writing to notice this common mistake.

Spell checker’s consistent failure

Consistency plays a vital role in presenting prospective clients with a professionally written proposal. Spell checkers are particularly bad in consistency leaving the door open for different spellings of the same word within a sing document.

Spot the error: We need to complete the authorization process before we can process your payment. Kindly complete the authorisation document attached to this email.

A successful business needs strong writing skills to build sustainable relationships with clients. I can help you draft a range of professional, exciting and persuasive business communications including letters, emails, brochures and website copy. 

I hope this helped you... If you have any questions or would like to find out about other "language traps" we often fall for in business communication, just give me shout... 

Just putting it out there... 

Aiden Sookdin