How to use framing to communicate strong messages
A message frame is a guide. It informs people where to look, but more importantly, helps them interpret what they see. Every message – whether… Read More
Writing and layout
George Orwell’s advice on good writing lives with us today
George Orwell (1903-1950) was an influential British novelist, essayist, journalist, and critic who wrote the famous books, the allegorical Animal Farm and his dystopian novel, Nineteen eight-four, which… Read More
How to write stronger article endings
As a professional communicator, you need to use many styles of writing in your work, not just the widespread news writing formula of the 5… Read More
How you can achieve stronger impact at the start of your articles
All professional communicators are aware of the pervasive news writing formula, which is based on the first paragraph of any news piece. The first paragraph is… Read More
Write point-first online headlines for best results
Headlines are online everywhere – in email subject lines, blog titles, social media posts, meta descriptions and page titles. They powerfully attract a reader’s initial… Read More
When small words become big words
When small words become big words. Have you noticed how many words have been replaced by bigger versions of those words, which are unnecessary and… Read More
Use numbers to make your writing more persuasive
Has a colleague ever said to you: “I started a writing career because I’m hopeless with numbers.”? Many communicators find it difficult to understand, use… Read More
Headlines in printed publications – use any color as long as it’s black!
Innovative design features like colored headlines make printed publications more attractive visually. But do such features improve reader comprehension and recall - which are the… Read More
Lost in translation: communicators too often overlook the importance of good translation
As a young PR consultant, I helped my colleagues develop promotional material in support of a client who was planning to set up a joint… Read More
Is text printed on a tinted background acceptable?
From a design perspective, it makes sense to vary the traditional black print on a white page to create more visual interest. But what about… Read More