Methodology

This workshop is based upon the principle that adult learners need to discover their own mistakes – a powerful motivator for learning. Each module teaches key knowledge and supports that knowledge with practical activities. The first day is spent on vocabulary, grammar and tone, and on the second day we apply the new knowledge and skills to document structuring and writing.

Your Learning Journey

Preliminary data collection

All companies have their preferences for the layout and presentation of correspondence, so our starting point for this programme is the collection of samples of best practice letters, memos, reports and emails from your staff. This investigation sets up benchmarks and determines the mix of content for the course, shaping the emphasis upon reports, emails, letters proposals etc as required by the target group.

Pre-course assessment of each delegate

One week before the workshop, delegates submit samples of their current correspondence for assessment. These documents help to identify the type and extent of their language problems, and provide a snapshot of their ability at the start of the learning programme.

The workshop programme:

The workshop activities are then constructed around the delegates’ specific needs in the following broad subject areas:

Vocabulary:

Choosing the right words for business correspondence.

Qualities of Style:

Mastering key grammatical functions to ensure clear, correct, professional writing. These include the appropriate use of active and passive voice, the Fog Index, parallelism and any other grammatical problems identified in the pre-course assessment.

Tone:

Using experiential activities designed to sensitise delegates to the appropriate use of tone in writing.

Structuring tips:

Using paragraphs, bullets and other devices to structure writing.

Mind mapping:

Planning information for well-organised writing.

Letter structures:

Writing well designed business letters that provide good news, bad news and/or make requests

Memoranda:

Writing memos that are clear, concise, precise and direct

Report writing:

Structuring and writing reports that convey the message clearly.

Proposals:

Structuring proposals that get results

Email etiquette:

Writing effective emails

MS Word functions:

Mastering the tools available on MS Word to maintain professional standards of writing.

Post Course Follow Up

• For six weeks after the workshop, delegates will receive a weekly tip by email. We encourage delegates to apply their new learning conscientiously.
• At the end of two months, delegates will be required to submit five documents, which show evidence of transfer of their new skills into their business writing.