Learning from Patrick Collison

 

Clear written communication from the CEO is a game-changer in sticky situations.

Here are 3 quick business writing lessons from an internal email written by Patrick Collison, CEO of Stripe.

1. Shorten your sentences.

Shorter sentences are more clear. They're easier to follow. Plus, they can quicken the pace of an argument, making it more engaging.

 

 

2. Use plain language.

Use words that people understand.

This will:

➤ Increase accessibility: Jargon or technical words may alienate people that you're trying to reach

➤ Save time: Readers can grasp the message quickly without having to look up unfamiliar terms

➤ Build trust: Simple language shows you're being transparent and not trying to hide behind big words

 

 

3. Have a clear takeaway.

Business writing is not meant to entertain.

Clearly convey action items or takeaways to conclude.

 

 

Clear written communication from the CEO is a game-changer in sticky situations. Here are 3 quick business writing lessons from an internal email written by Patrick Collison, CEO of Stripe.

1. Shorten your sentences.

Shorter sentences are more clear. They're easier to follow.

Plus, this is the quickest way to improve your business writing.

 

2. Use plain language.

Adding buzzwords will not improve your business writing. Use words that people understand.

You shouldn’t be trying to impress your reader with fancy words.

 

3. Have a clear takeaway.

Business writing is not meant to entertain.

Your objective is to convey some action item or takeaway.