The courtesy that’s beyond please and thank you, by Ruth Oji
Were you taught in primary school to use the magic words? Most people think courtesy means saying “please” and “thank you”, holding doors for others, not interrupting when others speak, remembering the social graces your parents taught you, and the etiquette that makes interactions flow smoothly and signals you were raised right. Well, that’s not wrong, […]
Mastering paragraph development (1), by Ruth Oji
Hi there! You do know that right now digital communication dominates and student writing increasingly reflects social media patterns, don’t you? This is a pertinent reason to pay attention to the fundamentals of paragraph development. In this article, I present you with practical strategies for improving your own writing. I’ll begin by exploring the need […]
Enhancing your message with images and design for appealing visual communication, by Ruth Oji
Are you a visual learner? Whether you are or not, the information-rich environment we work in has necessitated the need to communicate effectively beyond only the use of words. Visual communication has become an essential skill in professional settings, allowing us to convey complex ideas quickly, engage audiences more effectively, and leave lasting impressions. Whether you’re […]
Master the art of the follow-up through professional persistence (2), by Ruth Oji
Dear reader, I’m touching base to know if you have been able to apply any aspects of the suggestions I last shared in part one of the series, ‘Master the Art of Following-Up through Professional Persistence’. It’d be great if you have, and I hope it is working out well for you. This week’s article is […]
Master the art of the follow-up through professional persistence(1), by Ruth Oji
HAVE you ever felt awkward or lost some sleep over how to do follow-up on a certain transaction? Has it ever felt like the one at the receiving end should be the one to revert to you since you have provided all the necessary information? The ability to follow up effectively can be the difference between […]
How to promote diversity in the workplace through words, by Ruth Oji
Have you ever felt excluded at your workplace because of the way you were addressed? If so, you are not alone. Does your workplace have a wide array of persons from different cultures and backgrounds? If so, the words you choose can have a profound impact on creating an inclusive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and […]
How to craft a memorable elevator pitch in 30 seconds, by Ruth Oji
Undeniably, the professional world is fast-paced; thus, the ability to succinctly and compellingly communicate who you are and what you do is invaluable. Enter the elevator pitch: a brief, persuasive speech that you can use to spark interest in what you do. Whether you’re a job seeker, entrepreneur, or established professional, a well-crafted elevator pitch […]
Incorporating data and facts into narratives, by Ruth Oji
*Continued from last week While stories engage emotions, data provides credibility. The key is to weave your data seamlessly into your narrative, using it to support and enhance your story rather than overshadowing it. Here are some techniques: 1. Use data to set the stage: “In a market where 70% of startups fail within the first […]
How to balance efficiency and etiquette with the use of voice notes, by Ruth Oji
As the digital landscape evolves in its communication styles, a new player has emerged and is rapidly gaining popularity: the voice note. This audio messaging format, which allows users to record and send short verbal messages, is transforming the way we communicate in both personal and professional spheres. But as with any new technology, the […]
Storytelling in the workplace: Enhancing presentations and pitches, by Ruth Oji
In today’s data-driven business world, the allure of cold, hard facts can be overwhelming. Spreadsheets, graphs, and statistics often dominate presentations and pitches. However, the most successful professionals understand a fundamental truth about human nature: we are inherently drawn to stories. This understanding has led to a revolution in business communication, where narrative techniques are being […]
Digital communication and tone in emails and instant messages, by Ruth Oji
The ability to convey the right tone in written communication has become a crucial skill considering how digital the world is. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a student entering the workforce, mastering the art of digital communication can make the difference between building strong relationships and causing misunderstandings. In this article, I take you through the […]
Common sentence errors to avoid in business communication, by Ruth Oji
In the business world, effective communication is paramount. However, even seasoned professionals can fall prey to common sentence errors that undermine their message and credibility. In this article, I explore frequent mistakes in business writing and offer guidance on how to avoid them, ensuring your communications are clear, professional, and impactful. There are 12 errors in […]
Page to stage: Translating written content into effective speeches, by Ruth Oji
As communication holds the important role of transferring ideas, it is more invaluable in work and professional spaces. While written documents such as reports, articles, and essays allow for detailed comprehension of analysis, oral presentations allow for unhinged perspectives and insights to the audience which it is relevant for. The transition from written content to […]
The synergy of speaking and writing, by Ruth Oji
WHEN discussing ideas, having meetings, or sending emails, the ability to articulate your thoughts will greatly affect the outcome. While many focus on developing the skills of speaking and writing, the proficiency of today’s world demands a synergy of both. Mastering both writing and speaking skills will develop you, impact your communication across various platforms, […]
Modern journalism and its ethical dilemmas: Balancing truth and sensation, by Ruth Oji
Transparently portray all sides of the story by rigorously fact-checking every piece of information that constitutes a part of the story; ensure that the reporting is not only perceived as fair but stands for what it truly is in building trust with your audience.
Writing for advocacy journalism, by Ruth Oji
Advocacy journalism begins with the identification of issues requiring urgent attention.
