What do you do if your written communication in email and other digital platforms is ineffective?

1 Assess Impact

If your digital correspondence isn't hitting the mark, start by evaluating the responses you receive. Are recipients frequently asking for clarifications? Or perhaps there's a lack of response altogether. This feedback is a valuable indicator of how your messages are perceived. Take note of common themes in the replies you get or the absence of them. This initial assessment will help you pinpoint areas where your communication may be falling short.

3 Personalize Messages

Generic messages often fail to engage readers. To improve your written communication, personalize your emails and digital messages. Address recipients by name and reference any previous interactions or relevant details that show you've paid attention to who they are and what they need. Personalization can make the recipient feel valued and more likely to engage with the content of your message.

4 Review and Edit

Before hitting 'send', always review your message. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and ensure that your tone is appropriate for the context. Editing is not just about correcting mistakes; it's also an opportunity to refine your message for clarity and impact. If possible, have someone else review your communication as well. A fresh pair of eyes can catch errors you might have overlooked and provide valuable feedback.

5 Use Visuals

When words fall short, consider incorporating visuals into your communication. Charts, infographics, or even simple bullet points can enhance understanding and retention of information. Visuals break up large blocks of text and can convey complex information in a more digestible format. Remember, the aim is to complement your message with visuals, not to overwhelm or distract from the content.

6 Follow Up

If you're unsure whether your communication has been effective, don't hesitate to follow up. A polite check-in can provide you with insights into how your message was received and whether any further clarification is needed. It also demonstrates your commitment to clear communication and maintaining a positive business relationship. Follow-ups can be a powerful tool in ensuring that your message not only reaches your audience but resonates with them as well.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?