TCM 320 Effective s Making Your Count

TCM 320 When to Use A phone call might do Reasons to –Create a history –Address an issue –Invite candor –Convey a more serious tone

TCM The Basic Ideas Always include a meaningful subject. Make your point quickly but clearly. Use complete sentences. Avoid slang. Always try to provide a solution when presenting a problem.

TCM 320 Memo Format Short but effective –Two to three paragraphs –Introduces the issue –Details the situation –Provides a solution or asks for resolution

TCM 320 Memo Format HTML versus Plain Text –Visual quality can affect impact. –Use HTML or RTF unless specifically told not to. –Use only basic elements such as emphasis, bold, and indenting.

TCM 320 Memo Format (Cont.) Don’t sacrifice grammar for brevity: –Your language defines how you are perceived. –Use complete sentences & correct spellings. –Avoid jargon and cliches. –Smilies? Once was a faux pas Use sparingly

TCM 320 Ending the End your communication with an action item. Invite response. Always include a signature line. Avoid attachments: –Ask if they would like you to send a document. –Remember, not everyone has your application, fonts, or technical savvy, so be careful about making the ‘too fancy.’

TCM 320 Final Advice Re-read your carefully (if it’s important, send it to yourself first). Spell check, spell check, and spell check again. Proofread, proofread, and proofread again. Don’t treat business s as conversation: –They are legal document. –Don’t expect immediate replies. –Remember: Your can land on the CEO’s desk.