Since TBforum went international I thought that it would be helpfull to all our members and entrepreneurs that have Dutch as their native language to bring a English writing skills article. Therefore I will try to tell you all some key issues that one should look after while writing an article or website. I will also give some examples so that all of you will understand where I am talking about.
- Adapt your writing style
First of all, determine your audience. Your writing style should be adapted to your audience. For example, if you are writing for a students or so, write as simple as possible because of the simple fact that a lot of you have a small English vocabulary and do not know all the more difficult words. On the other hand, if you are writing for a journal or you have got to write a professional report adapt your style. In the next two sub-chapters I will give two examples of both the audiences.
- Students example
“Hey there, I’m looking for 2 new books and I saw that you’ve got some books over there. Can I come over to your place to read them through?"
Everybody knows what you mean, but please, do not come up with this kind of writing skills if you are writing a formal letter for instance.
- Formal example
“Dear mr. de Vries, It was brought to my attention that you are offering several books at your school. Since I am searching for two specific books, I wondered whether it is possible for me to visit you on a time that is suitable for you to see if you got the books I am looking for. If you are willing to help me, could you than please contact me via this e-mail address.”
As one can see, I do not use abbreviations like I’m and I am writing in a way that is professional. You should always try to use verbs such as: could, should in stead of: can or shall. Can and shall are two really strong verbs that are almost aggressive.
- Typing for websites
Since we are all in the IT business, I will give you some tips for writing on websites:
1. Do not use abbreviations (Less clear and downgrading your SEO)
2. Write in third person (E.g. as one can see in stead of as you can see)
3. Try as much as possible to write in British in stead of American English (E.g. Forwards in stead of forward)
4. Do not degradate Dutch words into English words (E.g. “… zijn er?” into “… are there?” is absolutely not done!)
If you are all interested in a larger article, please respond on this one and I would update it into a larger one.
