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Imagine that you’ve been asked to prepare a business report, a presentation and a brochure for a client you’re currently working with. Although the core content will be similar across documents, will you use the same writing style everywhere? Definitely not!
A writing style helps you convey your message the way it’s intended to. Navigating different writing styles in the workplace is an essential skill. Let’s see how to distinguish between various writing styles and effective ways to use them in our writing.
The Significance Of Different Writing Styles
Writing styles are different techniques an author uses to convey their message or information in a manner that’s meaningful to their audience. Writing styles help express who we are, our thoughts and what we want to establish through written communication. Everyone has an individualistic style of writing because we think and express differently.
Individuality lies at the heart of various types of writing techniques. Your writing style develops with you. The more you’re aware of your style, the better insights you gain. In other words, by placing importance on your writing style, you can improve your writing proficiency.
Having a clear understanding of different types of writing styles is a critical component in the workplace. The global workforce has been emphasizing the need for writing styles for the longest time. Whether it’s finding a new job or climbing the corporate ladder, you need strong communication skills to excel and build a professional reputation. Writing skills are key as they ensure effective business communication.
Explore The Different Styles Of Writing
There are various types of writing styles, of which four are primarily used. Each style has its own purpose and you may find a few styles better suited for your tastes. Let’s explore the various methods of writing with tips and examples for the workplace.
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Descriptive Writing
Descriptive writers like to go into the details by exploring characters, settings and events. You create a mental picture for the reader as they zoom in to appreciate the finer details. You often use metaphors, similes and adverbs that tickle a reader’s imagination. The purpose of descriptive writing is to make readers feel that they’re experiencing the situation for themselves. Here are a few tips for effective descriptive writing:
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Create a mental image before you begin writing
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Take your time as this style requires you to think deeply
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Pay attention to details as they capture a reader’s attention
For example, introducing a new employee via email, you will use biographical information and rely on descriptive style.
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Narrative Writing
It elaborates on descriptive writing and tells a story with a beginning, middle and an end. It follows a clear plotline and literary devices such as flashbacks and foreshadowing. They are long-form writing, where an author often uses descriptive sections full of facts. Here are some strategies to keep in mind when writing a narrative:
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Don’t leave behind any intriguing details of the story; include elements that’ll make it more exciting
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Identify the purpose behind your story; the reason should guide your writing
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Be consistent with the point of view that you provide; don’t indulge in too many unnecessary details
For instance, as a salesperson, you use a personal anecdote or narrative story for your sales pitch.
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Persuasive Writing
It’s one of the most unique methods of writing as the primary purpose is to convince your reader. In other words, you persuade the reader to think or do something after they’ve read the information. It requires you to combine research, logical reasoning and emotional connection to influence your readers so that they accept your perspectives, opinions and beliefs. Here are some goals to keep in mind when writing your persuasive piece:
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Identify your main idea; what is the purpose behind writing your piece
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Provide supporting details through research; it’ll help build your argument
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End with a call to action (CTA), indicating your reader what to do
For example, company brochures and business proposals use a persuasive writing style.
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Expository Writing
This style is used to describe, inform or explain something to readers. In other words, you use an expository style when you want to help your reader understand something better or simply convey information. Several types of technical writing are clubbed under expository writing. Analytical writing is a common example. Here are several ways in which you can improve your expository writing skills:
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Choose a topic to identify the main idea i.e., narrow down your focus
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Always keep the reader in mind and gauge whether the reader will have sufficient information or you’ll need to provide it
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Always support your writing with concrete facts and necessary details that’ll connect back to the main purpose (or topic)
For instance, employee newsletters provide information about specific topics supported by facts.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to navigate the different types of writing styles, it’s time for you to leave lasting impressions on your readers. If you’re still unsure about articulating and structuring your thoughts, Harappa Education’s Writing Proficiently course has your back. The Pyramid Principle will help you present key points upfront with supporting evidence. The PREP Model will help you present summarized versions of long reports effectively. Discover how to tell a story with every communication you draft.
Explore topics such as the Significance of Writing Skills, the Process of Writing & How to Write an Email from Harappa Diaries and polish your writing skills.
