Ditch the "Write Like You Talk" Cliché

We've all heard the age-old advice: "Write as you talk!" (You might even recall this tip from the last edition of my newsletter, with a twist! ) While this approach aims to make writing more natural, I don't actually agree with it because it misses the mark.

Now, hold on. Before you think I've gone rogue, I know they don't mean literally transcribe your "ums" and "ahs." Our speech is full of conversational peculiarities that wouldn't translate well to the written word.

The problem lies in the misdirection. While the advice is well-meaning, it focuses on the wrong thing.

It's not YOU, It's THEM -Your Audience

The seemingly straightforward advice to "write like you talk" falls short because it prioritizes the writer's voice over the reader's needs.

It's not about what you (the writer) want, it's about what they (your audience) want to read.

Effective communication hinges on understanding your audience. Who are you trying to reach? What is their level of expertise? What information are they seeking? Focusing solely on your own conversational style risks a disconnect.

Imagine bombarding an already knowledgeable reader with elementary details, or leaving a beginner confused by technical jargon. Furthermore, the informality of spoken language might not translate well to writing. Casual slang or filler words can come across as unprofessional or even disrespectful in certain contexts, potentially undermining your credibility.

Scenario: Tailoring Your Voice

You're writing a blog post about HEALTHY DIET. Your tone, lingo, and jargon will drastically shift depending on your audience.

• For a general audience: You might use a friendly and conversational tone, explaining basic nutrition principles with clear language and relatable examples. You'd avoid overly technical terms and focus on practical tips for incorporating healthy habits into daily life.
• For a fitness enthusiast audience: The tone might shift to be more informative and results-oriented. You could use terms like "macronutrients" or "calorie deficit" while still maintaining an approachable style. The focus would likely be on optimizing nutrition for performance and achieving specific fitness goals.
• For a registered dietitian audience: The tone would become highly professional, using accurate medical terminology and discussing the latest research findings. The blog post might delve into complex topics like specific dietary interventions for managing chronic health conditions.

In each scenario, the core message (healthy diet) remains the same. However, the way you communicate it is tailored to the audience's background knowledge, interests, and level of expertise.

Think of mirroring the language your target audience uses within their professional circles.

This fosters trust and positions you as someone who understands their specific needs.

A Better Mantra: Write Like Your Audience Talk

"Write Like Your Audience Talk," is a much more effective approach than the old standby, "Write Like You Talk."

"Write Like You Talk" centers on the writer's comfort and voice. While authenticity is important, it should serve the reader, not the other way around. "Write Like Your Audience Talk" flips the script, emphasizing the need to prioritize clear and relevant communication for the target audience.

Benefits:

By adopting this mantra, you'll create writing that is:

• More Engaging: Readers connect better with content that aligns with their language and thought patterns.
• Clearer: Using terminology and phrasing familiar to your audience reduces confusion and ensures a smooth understanding of your message.
• More Credible: Adapting your tone and avoiding casual language demonstrates professionalism and respect for your reader.

Remember:

The key isn't to become a chameleon, mimicking every detail of your audience's speech. It's about understanding their communication style and adopting elements that enhance clarity and connection.

I Can Help.

Want to take your writing to the next level? I'm hosting a limited-spot workshop, "Write Like a Pro 1.0," where you'll learn powerful techniques to tailor content that resonates deeply with your audience.

Spots are filling fast! Only 10 FREE spots remain – register here: bit.ly/writelikeaprowithjoyce

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Don't miss out on these valuable opportunities to elevate your writing and content marketing game!