What an excellent business writer would do in this situation would be to re-read the resume and ask the following questions: Is this person’s position description accurate? Is this person’s previous work history accurate?
Why is this person’s performance at this company so impressive?
What is the shortest amount of time needed for this individual to reach my goal? What does “A” mean on the cover page? These are the types of questions you would ask before handing over your resume.
An employer wants to know that the person applying for a position is serious about seeking employment and is capable of completing the duties required. In addition, he or she wants to know that the person has the qualifications necessary for the position. Therefore, the words on your resume should be those of a professional who is knowledgeable in the field in which you hope to find employment.
There are several ways to become an outstanding business writer. One way would be to specialize in a certain type of writing. For example, if you are an accountant, you can specialize in writing tax related materials. You might even consider getting a Masters degree in business and writing, or a certificate in business writing.
Another method of becoming an excellent business writer is to have a portfolio or a collection of sample works. If you are applying for a position as a business writer, then having a collection of sample letters, presentations, and other writings would impress the employer. The portfolio can be a valuable asset to your application. It shows a potential employer that you have taken the time to put together a professional collection of writing. In addition, the portfolio would serve as a showcase for you during an interview.
Finally, you should always have a proofreading tool at your disposal. Writing a resume and cover letter without checking it for errors is like driving without insurance. You will not know whether or not your content was accurate or grammatically correct until after you submit your resume and cover letter. Having a good spell checker and a grammar checker are essential to writing a professional document.
To reiterate, good English skills are essential to landing any job. This means that you must strive to be a better writer. You can start by reading business writing manuals, articles, books, newspapers, magazines, and other writing texts. Be aware of what the professionals are saying about topics you do not understand. You can also borrow books from the library and pay for professional copy-writing services. If your career goals require a lot of creative writing, consider getting a degree in creative writing.
