trade tips: six guidelines for using the exclamation point!
TRANSCRIPT
Trade Tips:Six Guidelines for Using the Exclamation Point!
By Nicole HayesHelpful Hints
forPublic
Relations Professionals
Though the exclamation point is
meant to convey enthusiasm, overuse
can appear like you are yelling at someone.
In a PR Daily article,Deborah Gaines writes that “people who get excited about every
little thing are perceived as flighty
and unprofessional…”
…while those who never show sparks
seem dull and plodding.”
Here are Gaines’ guidelines for the use of exclamation points in business:
1. Use sparingly
“They’re supposed to add punch, but
sprinkling them too liberally dilutes the intended effect.”
The exception:
Using certain words without an exclamation
point can sound sarcastic or derisive.
Consider:
“Well, that’s fabulous.”
vs.
“Well, that’s fabulous!”
2. One is enough
Multiple !!! suggest that you’re really
worked up.The result is annoying
at best and toxic at worst.
3. Don’t combine withother punctuation
marks
LOL and TTYL don’t belong in business and
neither does
?!
4. Consider the context
The more casual the form of communication
—text messages, friendly emails and
blog posts—the more flexible your writing
can be.
Keep it formal for proposals, company memos and other
external communications.
5. Get personal
Sometimes it’s appropriate to exhibit a personal interest—say,
when a co-worker has a baby
or gets an award.
5. Share your enthusiasm
As long as you’re sincere,
few people will object to accolades like:
“Great job!” or “Well done!”
This presentation was adapted from our Voice Matters Blog.
To learn more about McKinney & Associates, visit www.mckpr.com
McKinney & Associates was founded in 1990 with a commitment to social justice that has prevailed for more than 20 years. From the beginning,
McKinney passionately and skillfully practiced Public Relations with a Conscience for local, national and international organizations.
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