Business writing book Appleman a top seller
Jan. 4, 2009 — Better writing means higher productivity - one of the reasons that “10 Steps to Successful Business Writing,” authored by Jack E. Appleman, was one of the top sellers in 2008 for ASTD Press, the publisher. Appleman, prominent business writing instructor and winner of several awards, is president of SG Communications (
www.sgwriting.com), which offers writing workshops, webinars and one-on-one coaching sessions.
In the book, released February 2008, Appleman explains why better writing can help employees at all levels work more productively and demonstrate leadership skills. Among the practical advice he offers:
- Keep it simple.
- Be clear and concise.
- Grab readers' attention.
- Organize effectively.
- Pay attention to grammar.
- Write more effective emails.
“The most important skill in business writing is simplicity,” says Appleman. “But many people write text that’s way too complicated and confusing.” He adds that business writing is a learned skill - which everyone can improve with the right techniques. The book includes comparisons of the wrong and right ways to convey information, lists of preferred words and phrases, and exercises readers can do on their own.
In addition to his corporate writing workshops and individual coaching, Appleman is an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University and William Paterson University. He is also president-elect of the northern New Jersey chapter of the American Society for Training and Development, the world's largest association dedicated to workplace learning and performance professionals. ASTD Press is a division of this association.
