Composition Training: Is it a Corporate Trend?

On a scale of 1 - 5, how important is grammar at your workplace?

IMHO, syntax and grammar should be of utmost importance because we are judged by the way we speak and write, especially in business.

The way employees communicate internally with coworkers and externally with clients and vendors is a reflection on your organization.

I was reminded of this recently when a friend called with a grammar question. The very large law firm for which he works implemented mandatory composition training. Employees were required to complete a series of modules over a defined period of time.

What a fabulous effort! Employee development always pays huge dividends. An organization's number one priority should be its people. Employees are brand ambassadors, so investing in them is a no-brainer.

Not one to encourage shortcuts, I inquired about the training accompanying these modules. My friend gave me half an explanation and a whole lot of excuses. Apparently, he was to have done some reading and online work to prepare for the module tests, which involved editing. He said he was too busy and distracted to thoroughly complete the modules but had to get these tests done.

Hmmm. Too busy or too disinterested, or maybe a combination of both?

Like algebra, if we do not use grammar, we will likely forget all the formulas. It is simply human nature. No harm, no foul. Also like algebra, if we do not HAVE to know the formulas, we likely will not make an effort to retain that information. I aced algebra in high school but would likely fail an exam miserably at this stage because I rarely used any algebra in my professional life.

Unlike algebra, we communicate often through written word; therefore, it is important to stay abreast of the most basic rules at the least and learn to master more complex rules depending on our professional roles and aspirations.

If your organization is encouraging composition training, which I highly recommend, consider offering several learning modalities. Not everyone is comfortable with self-paced independent learning. Some fare better in a classroom or workshop setting. Some prefer a hybrid of self-paced with mentoring. Most have a primary style of learning, either visual, auditory, or kinesthetic. There is no one-size-fits all when it comes to education, even for adults, and especially in a corporate environment.

Let's talk about your corporate messaging and how your ambassadors, your people, can best exemplify your brand through all their communication!

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About me:

I am passionate about communication! My career began in broadcasting, transitioned into corporate communications, and now I do both. I also ghostwrite and coach professionals at every level in the art of Public Speaking and Interpersonal Communication. You can find some well organized speaking tips in my book?Impact: Deliver Effective, Meaningful, and Memorable Presentations. For some nostalgia and laughs check out my cultural narrative?Gravy Wars: South Philly Foods, Feuds & Attytudes?and my stage show?La Famiglia. Visit?www.LorraineRanalli.com?to learn the rest of my story. Let's work together to tell the stories behind your brand and your organization.