Benefits of using MS Editor to fix passive language

The purple underlining mystery. Ever wondered why some phrases in your draft are underlined with purple dots?

 It’s Microsoft Editor calling out passive language in your writing.

 Passive business writing drains the energy from your message and dilutes its impact.

Use MS Editor to transform passive language into active impact

In today's fast-paced workplaces, clear, concise, and timely communication is paramount. The way we convey our ideas can make or break a deal, influence decisions, and shape our professional reputation.

 Watch our short video on setting up MS Editor and using it to spot passive language.

Once you spot passive language in your writing, you can then choose active alternatives that enhance readability and comprehension.  

Top 4 benefits of routinely using MS Editor's passive language detection tool

Brings clarity

Conventionally, people use passive language in formal documents such as board papers, detailed reports, and minutes. Active language disrupts this thinking. It clarifies messages. It reduces words and makes content and meaning precise.

Saves time and boosts productivity

Writing and editing can be time-consuming, especially when combing through long documents to find passive language. MS Editor swiftly highlights passive language. Simply clicking on its purple underlined text allows you to explore suggested active replacements, saving you valuable time and effort.

Overcomes writing inertia

Often, writers fall into the trap of sticking to their comfort zones, resulting in a repetitive and monotonous style. MS Editor nudges users to opt for active language, encouraging them to break free from the inertia of passive writing. This shift injects energy and dynamism into your content, engaging readers, and elevating the overall impact of your message.

Boosts persuasiveness

Conventional wisdom suggests passive language can convey a sense of objectivity or neutrality. However, MS Editor challenges this notion and promotes active language as a powerful tool for persuasion. Direct and assertive active sentences establish your credibility, connect with your audience, and drive your desired outcomes.

Whether you're crafting an important email, developing a persuasive pitch, or working on a full-length report, MS Editor's passive language detection empowers business writing. It helps craft active and dynamic sentences, ensuring your message resonates with clarity and impact.

Here’s the bottom-line. You must earn the reader’s attention, never assume it. 

Save time and increase effectiveness with Bottom Line Up Front

You have only 8 seconds to capture a reader's attention before they lose interest and move on. That's according to Microsoft research into today's fast-paced workplace.

It's crucial therefore to make every second count in business communication. Leading with the most important information grabs attention, saves time, and increases the clarity and effectiveness of complex messages.

The Bottom Line Up Front (BLUF) technique provides a concise summary of the most important information or main takeaway at the beginning of the message.

BLUF helps time-poor professionals quickly understand the purpose of the communication and enables them to make informed decisions based on the information presented. BLUF saves time for the message sender and the recipient.

BLUF helps clarify the purpose and intent of the message, preventing confusion or misunderstanding. And it reduces the risk of misinterpretation or overlooking vital details.

Don't let important messages get lost in the noise. Make BLUF your go-to writing strategy at work.

Download our free BLUF “how to” guide and apply it to you emails, team chat messages, and longer documents. Use this link

Nothing beats word of mouth

General Motors CEO Mary Barra is quoted saying: “My definition of 'innovative' is providing value to the customer.”

Well, it looks like our different approach to business writing training and coaching is hitting the mark.

Underling text undermines your message

Do you underline words in headings and body text? Don't.

Underlining slows and confuses readers. It's a hangover from typewriters. I wished I'd known these 3 tips years ago.

1. Avoid underlining your words for emphasis. Use it for hyperlinks only.
2. Use bold for headings and subheadings.
3. Use itals judiciously in body text. Uncluttered presentation makes life easy for readers.