Magneto Ezine 31: Writing to lazy readers

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Below:
1. Your readers are LAZY
2. Public writing masterclass — Sydney
3. 101 collected writing tips

Your readers are LAZY

I'm amazed you're reading this. I mean, it's hard work, isn't it? You're having to drag your sorry eyeballs along the line, making meaning of all these letters and words. Outrageous!

Actually, you're probably NOT lazy. BUT if you assume your readers are lazy, you'll write in a much more engaging, interesting way. People will be more likely to start reading, read more, and act on what they've read.

Apply these tips to light a fire under your lazy readers:

Pique their interest: Half the battle is getting people to start reading. Once they start, they'll probably continue (if you've done a decent job). To pique their interest, consider big, benefit-oriented headlines and subheads; large, interesting pictures, graphs or charts; and bullet points instead of long sentences.
Short chunks: Long, dense blocks of text scream "hard work" to lazy readers, so chunk them down.
Do the work for them: What work will they have to do when they read your writing? Do it for them. Readers will love you for including a short summary of the key points, interpreting results for them, partially filling in forms for them, and making the next steps clearer.

Got a tip you can add? Come on — only a lazy reader wouldn't share it on our blog!

Paul sig



	Video: Classic writing blunders 101 tips eBook (free) Video: Writing to Persuade Dumb Distractions Pyramid Power Hyphen Syphon Know thy readers Exterminating errors Writing in your underpants Apostrophe catastrophe Make it rare to get “Well done!” Keep it short, sport Fat-free writing ALL back issues

BRAIN GYM
Steroids for your templates

Apply the tips above to your template letters, reports or proposals to ensure lazy readers aren't tuning out. Since you use your templates a LOT, improving them could add huge value to your business!

Sydney writing masterclass 24 June

Earlybird expires 4 June (save $160)

"My writing has improved dramatically thanks to your course. I quickly became the go-to person in HR for communications. Not for long, however, because I was promoted! Your course content was a big plus in getting my new job." HR Administrator, Alphawest

Give your career a shot in the arm!
Nothing says "leadership material" better than strong writing skills. Our June "Get it Write" masterclass is filling fast and always sells out, so book ASAP (10 people max. per class).

Earlybird rate (save $160) expires Friday, 4 June.

"Get it Write" masterclass, 24 June, Sydney: Details

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Free download:
101 collected writing tips

People are loving our e-book of 101 writing tips collected from smart business communicators. Why not read a tip a day?

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(free to e-zine readers)

Magneto Communications Pty Ltd

Phone/fax 1300 658 580

www.magneto.net.au
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