2015 Written Communications Tip

To avoid Writer's Block, jump into the middle of your topic to develop your points. Write through the conclusion, and then return to the introduction. In the opening, connect your reader's interests, needs, and wants to the topic and your purpose. Make sure you tell your reader what you want your reader to know (information), understand (education and development), believe (ethics and values), feel (human connection), and do (action).

Presentation Tip 2: The ACIDS Test (TM) Is your Call

End your presentation delivery with a direct call for your audience's attention in one of the directions listed in the "ACIDS Test"(TM). Your conclusion should include or imply your call. Call for Agreement or Action: Do you want a vote or the next step? Finding agreement is a precursor to identifying an appropriate plan of action. Call for Caution or Celebration: Do you want to reduce speed or reward? Determine if additional time, information, or other resources are necessary for an appropriate course. If all the resources are assembled, then a compelling vision and mission will inspire a following. Along the way to the goal and at the end of the goal, take time to acknowledge accomplishment and initiative with lunch or a party. Call for Information or Instruction: Do you need more data or a skill? Assess the situation and identify the missing links and performance gaps. Call for Discussion or Decision: Do you need more input or a plan? Determine if informed, reasonable progress comes next, or if more points of view and evidence are needed. Call for Sales or Solution: Do you encourage revenue or conclusion? Will you provide a service or product that serves the customer, or will you create a solution to resolve the current dilemma? Use the "ACIDS Test" in your next presentation conclusion.