HOW TO START WRITING

One strategy you can employ is my technique of “writing out loud.” This works in speechwriting, media interviews, really any form of communication that has to come from you. When executive coaches from Bates Communications get together with our clients, we’ll turn on the tape recorder, ask questions, and record the exact words our clients say. This ensures that we are capturing the authentic ideas, words, and cadence of the leader.

You can also make your own writing more authentic and efficient if you record your words, your way. You don’t need a coach, but it is helpful to have an interviewer. A CEO I know works with his executive communications team. Several times he has been able to sit down with them, turn on a tape recorder, and answer their questions. They transcribe and edit what he says and work it into his blog and speeches. As to how often to write, the more you do it the better you get. And if you are writing for a blog remember you need to be a regular or you won’t gain a following. Be realistic about your busy schedule, but consider writing once a week, or twice a month, to begin. Set up a system for capturing your ideas with someone on your team handlin....