Write Away e-bulletin

February 2011

This month, we find out why too much internet research can make you depressed – and not just because you miss all your deadlines.

We also help you get to grips with apostrophes once and for all, and look at why speaking your customers’ language is good for business. We say now is the perfect time to make your company policies more readable – our action plan shows how simple it can be. Plus, there's our campaign against business babble: this time Ban the bull takes on financial jargon.

Oh, and on the subject of money, there’s also a guide to writing accounting reports in plain English.

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• Stop looking and start writing

  Using the internet for research may have made life easier, but it has not made us any happier, according to psychologist Barry Schwartz. In fact, it can make you downright depressed. But fear not: using the information superhighway needn’t turn your report into a dead-end. Let us help you get your words flowing …
  

• Now you’re talking my language

  When customers send thank you letters (yes, really, they do), keep the good feeling going with a reply that speaks to their hearts and you’ll reap the rewards …

• Ban the bull

  Our cause is simple: to rid the world of business bull by strapping down suspects and shining a light into their eyes until they start talking sense. This month, financial language that doesn’t add up …

• Quick tips: apostrophes sorted in four minutes

  Confused about how to use the pesky little dangler? You’re not alone, says expert trainer Kathy Gemmell, who explains all in our audio guide …

• Policy for the people

  When it comes to updating company policies, the aim is to make your documents meaningful to all your people, and prevent them dozing off. Let us lead the way …

• The language of money, AccountingWEB.co.uk

  Rob Ashton offers a six-step guide to clear and effective writing for accountants …