Definition:
Memorandums, reports, proposals, and other forms of writing used in organizations to communicate with internal or external audiences. See also:
- Technical Writing
- What Is the "You Attitude"?
- Top Ten Editing Tips for Business Writers
- How to Write a Professional Email
- Twelve Tips for Improving Online Writing
- Ten Quick Tips to Improve Your Writing
- Proofreading Tips
Examples and Observations:
- "Throughout the globe, the written word, in both paper and electronic forms, is seen less as strictly a way of archiving the business already completed and more as a vital, creative means of problem solving, collaborating, and actually doing business."
(R. Inkster and J. M. Kilborn, The Writing of Business, Allyn and Bacon, 1999) - Business writing . . . is utilitarian, aiming to serve any one of many purposes. Here are just a few purposes of business writing:
- To explain or justify actions already taken: "Given that situation, we have determined that the best course of action is to reject all current bids and to seek others."
- To convey information, as in a research report or the promulgation of a new company policy: "Management wants all employees to know that the floggings will stop as soon as we have evidence of improved morale."
- To influence the reader to take some action: "I hope that you will find that our new, Web-based cash management services can reduce your capital requirements and save you money."
- To deliver good or bad news: "Unfortunately, the engine fire you reported occurred one day after the expiration of the warranty period."
- To direct action: "Your team should complete and deliver the product specifications by May 1."
(Harvard Business Essentials: Business Communication, Harvard Business School Press, 2003)
Also Known As: business communication, professional writing
