Where Are the Humans? The Language of Economic Insecurity
Many people compare and contrast the Great Depression with our current economic troubles, to gain some perspective and perhaps find solutions from past experience. But the words used to describe our plight today almost sound like a different language. During the Great Depression, President Roosevelt looked for solutions that would place “the security of the […]
Word Inflation: Amazing, epic, disruptive innovation
I’m mixing metaphors, but many communicators in the U.S. (Sorry, I don’t get to read Der Spiegel or Paris Match), are getting out of hand – and way over the top – with word inflation. If every product change or new idea is amazing, epic, and disruptive, what happens when something really significant takes place? […]
Lessons from a Sunday Obituary
An obituary got me thinking. The obituary announced the death of renowned Arkansas poet Miller Williams, who was celebrated for using everyday language in his verse. The short poem cited in the piece – titled “Compassion” – moved me, as it did Miller’s daughter, the country singer Lucinda Williams, who used her father’s spare lines […]
Frank Bruni Asks a Good Question
I’ve been thinking about writing a column on this subject for a long time. Then I saw that Frank Bruni of the Times beat me to it, and did so beautifully. I couldn’t have said it better myself, so I won’t try. “What Happened to Who?” by Frank Bruni “I first noticed it during the […]
Keeping it real: Writing that’s trustworthy and credible
And in only 7 tips, not 10! Helping people solve problems, answer questions and make informed decisions is key to your success. But you have to be real, or they won’t buy it. Here are seven easy tips to make sure you’re communicating authentically, whether you’re marketing a product or sending an informative email. Know […]
Get ’Em On Your Side: Framing Part Deux
A couple of blogs ago, I wrote about the importance of “framing” your writing, so readers or listeners can connect emotionally with your ideas through shared values. The marketers of processed food and beverages, as well as alcohol and tobacco, have understood the framing challenge very well. Minimizing the health threats of their products, they […]