Your reader’s interests

Much of the business writing we do is intended to change someone’s point of view or compel them to act. This is the hallmark of advertising and marketing copy, but it’s also true of writing a memo to the CEO or emailing your boss asking for travel approval for an upcoming conference.

Begin by understanding your reader’s perspective. Why do they care about what you’re writing? And then align your approach with their priorities. For instance, does your manager care more about adhering to a tight budget or forming new relationships with people attending a conference. Once you’re clear about your reader’s interests then start typing.