Effective writing has the illusion of speech without its bad habits
Exceptional content
I’ve been writing professionally for a long time. I never stop learning but these are four steps I always take:
1 Gather compelling material
This comes from a combination of thoughtful research, knowing how to interview people, and the experience to indentify what will work.
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2 Create a powerful story
Whatever you want to communicate to an audience, you can create a story that makes them sit up and take notice. I share my techniques for this in my Learn The Art Of Storytelling course (add link).
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3 Strip it back
Critically reviewing and filtering what you've written is crucial. As the author Elmore Leonard wrote: “Leave out the parts that readers tend to skip."
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4 Make an impact
While I focus on creating great content, I also work with experts who can give the story maximum impact. That includes outstanding photographers, illustrators, designers – and working with web agencies to optimise digital content.
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WHAT do I write?
I create web copy, white papers, reports and video scripts. I write speeches and blogs for business leaders. I produce and present podcasts. And I’m also an experienced magazine editor and features writer.
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WHO have I written for?
Here are just a few of the brands:
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L to R: IQ magazine, interview with Brian Cox, feature in CA Magazine and the Library of Mistakes.
What's happening now?
I'm currently working for several clients on content and podcast projects. I am also editor-in-chief of IQ (the magazine for Mensa members), contribute regularly to CA Magazine and am social media curator for the Library of Mistakes.