I tell people that my university results were 5%-10% higher than they warranted academically because I could write. My flair for expression meant I scored significantly more in my essays and exam papers, and that was before I developed my skills. Writing makes a difference.
When I joined the corporate world, I saw that my ability had value there too. Proposals and reports were part of my deliverables and I was able to make more of an impact because of my eloquence. I enjoyed the creative and rigorous aspects of the work and was asked by others to help them with theirs. Instantly, I could see how to improve things and ultimately enhanced the outcomes.
I had a boss who was particular about language and grammar, with a predilection for correcting everyone else’s, and, annoying as that could be, I embraced it and absorbed all I could from him. I endeavoured to learn at every turn, which included revisiting some old school textbooks for the basics. Steadily I strengthened, and increasingly that stood out. When we show our gifts due respect, they inevitably bring return on investment.
That boss was raised by an attorney, who had emphasised and conveyed the importance of precision. “Say exactly what you mean and don’t say what you don’t mean,” he handed down to me through his son 30 years my senior. In legal practice that changes the game, and anywhere it can be definitive as well as beautiful. Writing is a brilliant way to make life beautiful, and it reaches across time.
When you don’t know a word, look it up — and then work it into your communication to solidify its inclusion in your canon. Use a thesaurus instead of repeating a term, and pay attention to punctuation, employing it properly for precision. And read! You don’t retain everything but you certainly build, and people love a stimulating communicator. Your magnetism grows while your writing refines your mind and your character as powerfully as any other practice.
When I started my own business I was scheduled to run a public workshop in partnership with an event organiser, who suggested I produce an article for the employment supplement of the main regional newspaper. The editor ran it, inviting me afterwards to write for him regularly, which shifted me onto a new level or creativity, productivity and brand-building. It made me apply myself and progress passionately.
My work took another leap when I produced and published my first book. There’s no substitute for time at the keyboard and, 30 titles later, I realised that I had mastered my craft, which brought an unexpected feeling of fulfilment and confidence. More than ever, I recommend writing as a way of life and a primary business skill.
The trick is to simply start, let it flow naturally, and then develop as you go. Enjoy it while you cultivate it
It makes you a better leader, lawyer, apprentice, accountant, strategist and salesperson. It also makes you a better parent and a better human. Every career comes alive and every practitioner actualises with the playful pursuit of impeccability. The best way to develop yourself holistically is to work on your writing, because getting it right out there sets you straight inside.
Schools push for academic performance to secure future success but neglect the single most prevalent and significant element. Imagine a 5%-10% increase in overall results, then a network of thorough individuals everywhere and their impact on industry and the global populace. Business benefits from flair and rigour, connection and care, and writing is the reliable route.
I do it in my books, projects, articles, social media and correspondence, and I train and mentor people into the powers of the pen in their particular professions. Make it your main endeavour, too, patiently and persistently, whatever else you are doing, and watch things grow. It’s not something artificial intelligence or anyone else can do for you.
The trick is to simply start, let it flow naturally, and then develop as you go. Enjoy it while you cultivate it. Practice when you are texting, craft superb e-mails, and post profoundly on social media. Work on your autobiography, produce a book in your company, and let your success speak for itself. It will become your life and your legacy.
• Wheeler helps people in companies write, work and live better
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.