Bulkley Valley Research Centre - Science in the Public Interest

Writing in the Workplace: Effective communication in the digital age

Project Reference Number: 2013-11

Project Status: Complete

Led by: Amanda Follett, Communications Coordinator, Bulkley Valley Research Centre

Funder: Course Fees

This workshop took place on March 14, 2013.

The following is the notice that went out advertising the event.

Written forms of communication are increasingly taking over in the workplace, from emails to instant messaging. While written interactions are convenient, they can also lead to miscommunications.

This workshop addresses the need to use clear and concise writing for effective emails and other written correspondence. It teaches the basics of effective communication through writing, including:

• Planning, drafting and proofing: why they are important

• Style and tone: considering your audience and objective

• Discussion of basic writing composition and sentence structure

Workshop participants will learn about communicating clearly and effectively with the public and colleagues, including email and other writing skills useful for reports, proposals and business letters. Participants are asked to bring with them a written piece of communication, such as email or business letter, for discussion. Participants are encouraged to bring any written communications you’re working on for discussion and instructor feedback.

Cost is $80 per person and participants can register at the Bulkley Valley Research Centre at 1188 Main Street, 250-847-2827. The recommended text for this workshop is Impact (Pearson Prentice Hall), which can be ordered through Interior Stationary for $73.50 or purchased secondhand online.

Instructor Amanda Follett has a Bachelor of Journalism and Master of Arts in Communication. She has over 10 years experience working as a freelance writer and communications specialist.