Business Writing
Common Business Writing Mistakes
Eight habits that make business writing harder to read, and how to fix them.
By Writing Experts Editorial Team (editable) ·
Most weak business writing is not wrong; it is unclear. These common habits are easy to fix.
Burying the main point
Readers should find the key message in the first lines. State what you want or what you found first, then explain.
Writing for yourself, not the reader
Internal jargon and abbreviations may mean nothing to outsiders. Use the reader’s vocabulary.
Very long sentences and paragraphs
If a sentence needs two readings, split it. One idea per paragraph is a good rule.
Vague wording
Phrases such as “as soon as possible” or “various improvements” leave readers guessing. Give dates, names and specifics.
Inconsistent terms and style
Calling the same thing by three names confuses readers. Choose one term and keep to it, as well as one spelling and format.
The wrong tone
A message can be correct and still sound abrupt or overly stiff. Match formality to the relationship and, in Arabic, to the conventions of formal correspondence.
Skipping the proofread
Small errors suggest carelessness. Read slowly, read aloud, or ask someone else to check.
Leaving out the next step
Say what you expect the reader to do and by when.
Good business writing is plain, precise and considerate of the reader’s time.