Ch. 3 Reading Response

Chapter three goes into great detail about the proper way to compose a business message and how to write clearly, concisely, and to the point. Before one even begins writing, they need to establish one thing: is the purpose of my message to inform or is it to persuade? Once the purpose has been established, there is a simple format one can use to outline the message. The acronym for this outline is OABC (opening, agenda, body, and closing). Following this format is essential to effective writing because each component of the outline has a specific purpose to contribute to clear and concise message overall.

For an opening, one must communicate the context to the reader, almost like an opening summary. The reader needs to know the subject of the message, giving them something to expect. Next comes the agenda. The agenda essentially gives the reader an outline of the rest of message. An agenda communicates to the reader the general points that will be covered throughout the remainder of the message. Following the agenda of the message comes the body. The body of a message delivers the "promise" laid out in the agenda. It is important to stick with the points covered in the agenda. The reader has specific information that they have prepped themselves to read more about. Don't add points that they were not expecting, it is irritating having to read something that was longer than anticipated. Similarly, don't leave points out. It becomes confusing when a reader has prepped themselves for specific information, and then there is no follow up to explain a point more. The body, which is generally the longest part of the message, is where the writer can go in depth to explain their purpose. To close one's message, it is important to summarize key points. The key points should be the things the writer wants the reader to remember, whether that be a call to action, a conclusion made through the information that was just presented in the document, or a statement that is relevant to the reader or the situation at hand. Just as the opening is the opening summary, the closing gives an overall summary of what was just read.

In reference to my last response for chapter two, effective communication and connection to the reader is essential for effective writing. I feel that this principle goes hand-in-hand with outlining and composing a successful message. The reason this outlining method works is because it makes the writer be mindful of the reader. In every step of this outline, the writer communicates to the reader what will be happening. It keeps the reader engaged and informed throughout the entirety of the document. Keeping the reader informed on what is currently happening and what will be happening next in their reading creates a trusting relationship. The reader can trust the writer of being organized and mindful of their needs and their time. Communicating the purpose and flow of the message is thoughtful. Leaving the reader confused creates feelings of irritation. The overarching theme throughout every aspect of business writing and communication is respect. When people and groups can respect one another, relationships of trust can be formed.