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Communication skills are more important than ever, but what if your grammar doesn't quite make the grade?
Fifty years ago, you would've walked over to your coworker's desk or called up to the second floor to ask a question. Now, whether your coworkers are in the next cube or half a world away, it's standard practice to email, instant message, or text them.
This shift in basic communication has made writing skills crucial to being listened to.
An increasing number of employees are "working with people they have never met and communicating with them largely through email," Will Ellet, adjunct professor of writing at Brandeis International Business School, told CNBC.
No matter what format your written communication takes, it needs to be clear and concise. Misunderstandings can lead to costly mistakes. Given that the average professional sends and receives more than100, emails a day, no one has time to read rambling messages that don't get to the point quickly.
We could all use a little refresher on our business writing skills. And thanks to a wealth of free classes and resources online, we can improve our grammar and write from the comfort of our own desk chairs -- without spending a dime.
To get you started, we've put together a list of tips for quickly improving your written communication skills. Check 'em out. (And if you're looking for more, here's an excellent list of helpful websites and tools that address common grammar questions and errors.)
HOW TO BECOME A BETTER WRITER
Develop a daily writing habit.
Try to read every day.
Capitalize when you're supposed to.
Avoid using exclamation points.
Always think about your audience.
Cut the filler phrases and buzzwords.
Sign up for a free writing course online.
Use writing templates.
Make sure you address people correctly.
Study commonly misused words and phrases.
Drop the word 'very' from your vocabulary.
Read your writing out loud.
Ask for feedback from your peers.
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