
Tactful Writing: How to Say “No” & “Sorry”
When it comes to tactful writing in business, two small words can cause an impressive amount of trouble. You’ve read the title of this article, so you’ve probably guessed… They’re “No” and “Sorry”. “No” can
Focused on copy for online and digital elements, I’m very aware of the need for engagement, conversion and ROI. I ask a lot of questions, to uncover readers’ problems or challenges, before writing anything.
Let’s say you need copy, content or direction, but you could also benefit from honest, easy-to-follow advice from someone who’s been doing this for almost 20 years.
You want your copywriting work done right, on deadline and within budget. And you need all the latest best practices identified and adhered to.
Or maybe you’ve had mediocre copy before and it’s time to turn to a professional writer you can rely on, to deliver a specific tone, style or brand voice.
You can’t throw words onto a screen (or get AI to hallucinate some for you) and expect your website to deliver. Web copy needs strategy, structure, personality, an understanding of user behaviour, SEO… and style!
Emailers, sales letters, banner ads, conversion copy for paid campaigns – each of these types of digital media has its own parameters, requirements and idiosyncrasies. And best practice is constantly evolving.
Never write marketing collateral yourself – or get your cousin’s clever daughter to write it for you. You’re too close and your cousin’s daughter has no idea what your prospects need to consider you credible.
Here’s the thing: It’s harder to create a powerful 30-second radio commercial than a brilliant 900-word thought leadership article. And corporate videos live or die based on the script. So please don’t skimp.
As a rule, you probably shouldn’t trust free advice. Except for this.

When it comes to tactful writing in business, two small words can cause an impressive amount of trouble. You’ve read the title of this article, so you’ve probably guessed… They’re “No” and “Sorry”. “No” can

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