First, a little background about myself. Even though I pretty much focus on web content these days (and work in a web team), I have a marketing/communication background and have done my dues in both large government marketing teams, as well as much smaller boutique communication agencies. So for many years I’ve written brochures, annual reports, publications, media releases, advertisements and the like.
I have always found it interesting that marketing and communication in general were not really respected professions. In fact, most people I’ve encountered (and this includes some of my friends), find it hard to see the value in what a good communication professional can offer an organisation.
I think it’s worse for web communication professionals.
I’ve noticed that during large gatherings when my husband (who is in the health profession) would regale a tale of what he was working on, or give some sort of social commentary on a health issue, or just give his opinion about a health condition – guess what? No one would argue. No one would question. No one would second guess (even though I know for a fact that half of the time I would know the same amount of information as he did). They all respected that being a front-line health professional he would logically know a lot more about these issues than the average man on the street.
However, when I would give my two cents worth about a content related issue, or talk about the latest in web – everyone would have differing opinions. Why? Cause everyone is a user or a consumer of information. This makes people think ‘Hey, I can use the Internet, therefore I know what would make a successful site’.
Wrong.
I spend a good chunk of my time trying to convince clients that the web is an art form; that a site doesn’t have to have a lot of animation, flashy graphics, or the latest in functionality to be successful; or that using a lot of big words does not make you seem more professional or intelligent.
Keep it simple.
Make it easy to read, not a chore.
Invest in good content. Actually, invest in a good content writer. They are worth their weight in gold.
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Hi
i m new in this field and would seek your advise on “What is good writing” . English is not my native language but i am trying hard to move with it. I have written some Articles on my blog which i have recently started without intention to carry it further. But now i am enjoying it. My blog is http://www.chitchatwithrehan.blogspot.com.
I would really appreciate if u can visit and advise me.