I recently blogged about the Grammar Police, those social
media friends who are compelled to correct tweets and Facebook statuses down to
the last comma. But now it's time to be serious about grammar, punctuation and
basic language skills. In writing, in business, in self-promotion it is very
important to work towards perfection.
Yes, perfection.
I just visited a website for a company that writes press
releases for various organizations and individuals and distributes the releases
to publications for use. Their website was riddled with errors. I debated about
sending the company an email to alert them (and ask if they'd like to hire a
proofreader) and in the end decided: no. Honestly, if I sent emails to every
website I visit that has errors, it would be an unpaid part-time job. So I have
to pick and choose.
Joe's car wash? Yes, I would email them. Joe is probably
just a decent, small business man that is trying to make a living by washing
cars. Although he may not be particularly tech savvy, he does understand the
importance of a web presence and probably hired his cousin to build a website
for him. Joe may appreciate the heads up and possibly be receptive to the idea
of a proof reader. I like Joe already.
But a PR firm? Aren't they advertising their exceptional
writing abilities? Not only would I not hire them, but I would suggest they
hire an editor. I can only imagine the email I would get in reply:
"Thanks for visiting our websigh. Are you interested on
any of our servics?" (No, really not, thanks.)
Which brings me to the point of this blog. I don't expect
everyone to be perfect. I'm certainly not. But, writers, or editors, or businesses
that are in the business of selling their writing want to be taken seriously.
Therefore, they should at least try to make their marketing material, or self-promotion,
error-free.
Use an editor or a proofreader if you have to. Graciously
accept and acknowledge those who find an error and let you know so that you can
fix it. Strive toward perfection.
Check out my (meant to be humorous) blog about the Grammar Police.
