How Clear Are You?

Later this morning I will be speaking to the Small Business Centre's Networking Wednesday group about The Nimble Assistant and how things have progressed over the last year. The small businesses in my community are forces to be reckoned with and I'm delighted to be contributing to their success.

One of the tips I found beneficial is keeping your message clear. There are some highly skilled writers in the city that can help with that. Susan Regier, of Vantage One Writing, is one of them. But before you go to see Susan, you may want to tap into your resources right at home.

Ask your family and friends to describe what you do. I had a bit of an eye opener when I did this. If they're not clear on certain areas or can't tell you what you do, you'll have a starting point, if nothing else. There are many people that would caution against the degree of honesty those closest to you will give. I think it's the safest place to start; and the most obvious one, next to yourself of course, that needs to be correct.

You need to be prepared for the worse of course. When faced with the "I don't know," be ready to tell them your infomercial without the incredulous tone. Make notes as you would a complete stranger and ask questions like: "What part do you think needs more explanation or better wording? What seems weird? What seems right?"

I suggest you keep this away from the Thanksgiving table when the whole family is there. The silence would be deafening and this deserves some time, not just after"pass the turkey please." Perhaps, on an average weeknight when things are calm and you have the person's attention would be best.

Good luck and keep testing your message; you never know where it will take you!

Nimbly yours,
Jennifer