BUSINESS STYLE

Case Study

Business style is constantly evolving. A few decades ago, legal contracts regulating business were written in a formal style full of twisted sentences and difficult language (called legalese) that often-made key concepts, obligations, and rights nearly impossible to understand. In Canada, banking and insurance industries were at the forefront of the transition from this type of writing to a plain language style. In 1979, Royal Insurance of Canada produced the first plain-language insurance policy and Scotiabank worked with lawyer Robert Dick to redesign and rewrite its loan forms. Through the mandate of the Canadian Bankers Association (CBA), Scotiabank has maintained its commitment to plain language. "We know that plain language makes sense for our customers. And it also makes sense for us-saving time by eliminating confusion and improving communication within our organizations and with our customers. The Government of Canada, through its 2018 Content Style Guide and Directive on the Management of Communication continues to champion plain language by mandating communications products and activities that are "clear, timely, accurate, accessible and written in plain language." Developing an effective business writing style is the key to reaching your readers and conveying your message. Style comprises the rules, conventions, registers, and options you need to consider whenever you write. These considerations apply to the words you choose and combine to form sentences that are correct, factually well-supported, and context specific. Effective business style also involves thinking about how words "sound" and how your readers are affected by the words you use. Good style creates a good impression, not just of you but the company you represent. By paying attention to the language you use, you can eliminate the frustration caused by communication that is hard to read, confusing, or uninformative and there by build and sustain business relationships. Savvy communicators know that a clear, factual, concise, and adaptable style can simplify everyday tasks and make information manageable. An effective writing style matches your meaning with your intentions; makes it easier for audiences to understand facts, claims and proposals; and shows readers that you have thought through what you have proposed and why you have proposed it. In the long term, good writing supported by an effective business style is a major contributor to career growth and a vital factor in building personal and corporate credibility.

NOTES: Complex documents such as user agreements, instruction manuals, and mortgage applications can benefit from a plain language approach. With its emphasis on simplicity, directness, and clarity, plain language allows business to make complicated information accessible to their customers and clients.

Case Question 1 What do you mean by effective Business style? Explain in detail with examples.

Case Question 2 What can simplify everyday tasks and make information manageable and why?

Case Question 3 What is needed for effective business writing style? Explain in detail with examples.