You have a great idea for a business article. You’ve checked and double checked the content, spelling and grammar. You’re about to send it to the editor.
BUT WAIT!
Have you checked you’re not making a massive mistake by including something that should be avoided? Below are the common writing mistakes and how to avoid them.
Cliches
Are you ‘passionate’ about your business? Is your business ‘unique’ and ‘never been done before’. Do you ‘think outside the box’ and ‘reach for low hanging fruit’?
I think you get the point. Avoid cliches, they’re trite, overused and take away from the quality of the writing.
Repetition of Words
I have a terrible habit of starting sentences with ‘So’. I don’t know why, it’s just something I do. Watch out for repeating words.
Jargon
Unless you’re writing for an industry specific magazine, avoid using jargon that the reader won’t understand. Keep it simple, and use straightforward everyday language. It can be a huge turnoff for the reader (and the editor) if you’re writing is full of acronyms.
Being too salesy
Now is not the time to show off! Keep it humble; think serve, not sell. You’re looking to educate your audience with new information, triggering them to seek you out further – start selling and you’ll turn your audience off.
If in doubt use Who, Where, What, When and Why for intros – Who did what, where, when, why and how?
Keep it diamond shape – begin with your main point, broaden to the theme and close with the point repeated.
If you’re not sure about the article or copy you’ve written why not book a Prime Coaching Call with me? I’ll work with you to edit your article and make sure it’s in the best shape before sending off. Click on the link to book your session.