Over-professionalism – resist the urge

On yesterday's workshop, someone coined the term 'over-professionalism'.

They were describing a style of writing with impressive words in long sentences.
 

What a great way to describe the excess of it!

Now I've got a word to describe something that no one wants. 

Not senior leaders.
Not board members.
Not lawyers.
Not recruiters who read your CV and cover letter.
Not even people who write over-professionally themselves.
 

How do I know?

Every single person on every workshop I've ever run wants simple, clear writing that they can understand.

The more senior they are, the more they want simplicity.

Your topic can be complex. But people want your complex ideas housed in simple sentences and familiar words.
 

When the urge strikes

Next time you feel the need to turn on the professionalism because:

• your reader has an impressive job title

• the situation is serious or important...

...resist the urge to over-professionalise.

Write like you speak.