Business and Government Writing Essentials: Clear, Concise, Compelling
Easily applicable plain language tools and techniques to make your writing crisp, clear, and effective.
Course overview
In this course, author and plain language expert, Simon Hertnon, guides you through the steps of successful writing.
You will learn the most efficient way to first clarify the goal of a document, then outline it, then write it. The course provides you with the skills and confidence to deliver value through writing that is clear and concise and, when it really matters, compelling.
The course employs a seminar-and-workbook format – interspersed with discussions and exercises – and is structured to reflect the optimal writing process. Participants all receive a copy of Simon’s popular book, Clear Concise Compelling: How to write less to achieve more, so you can continue to develop your skills after the course.
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What you'll learn
- Deliver value through every type of business writing
- Save time by producing clear briefs and organised outlines before drafting
- Logically structure any document
- Confidently choose headings and tone
- Avoid overwriting
- Avoid common spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors
- Meet the requirements of the Plain Language Act 2022
Course modules
Part 1 – Thinking (before drafting)
- Principles of successful communication
- Writing to deliver value
- Persuasion
- Briefing
- Outlining
Part 2 – Designing information
- Structure, style, tone and plain language
- Word choice and grammar
- Punctuation
Further Information
Format
This course is delivered as a full-day in-person workshop at our Wellington venue. It includes a mix of facilitator-led sessions, small-group exercises, and whole-group discussion. Group size is limited to 16 participants to ensure meaningful interaction and personal feedback. Morning tea, lunch, and afternoon tea are provided to support networking and collaboration.
What You'll Receive
You will receive a digital certificate of attendance and a Wellington Uni-Professional digital badge. These include the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) hours completed, making them suitable for recognition by professional organisations and employers.
Plain Language Act 2022
The Plain Language Act requires government departments and agencies and their public servants to use plain language when writing to the public. Our Facilitator, Simon Hertnon, has detailed clearly what the Act is about, what it requires and who it impacts, why it matters to you and how it will be implemented. You can read more here. The good news is Business and Government Writing Essentials gives you the very tools you need to meet the requirements of the Act.
Here's what others are saying
“I’d recommend Simon’s course to anyone who does any sort of writing as part of their daily life (yes, even email!). The course helps develop confidence that will transfer to your emails, newsletters and reports.”
“This is the first time I have ever enjoyed a writing course. I highly recommend it.”
“A foundation course for anyone in a knowledge-based role in the public service.”
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