As the founder of a publishing company, it should come as no surprise that good writing is vital to my work. However, it needs to be noted that good writing skills are vital to all, whether it be in my publishing business or elsewhere in the startup world.
As the CEO, I shudder when I receive an email that has grammatical errors. Whether you have written to me in search of a job or to pitch your services, the presence of errors dooms your approach. Although a single misspelling doesn’t mean the end of communication, when there are more errors than that, it means that I won’t take you seriously.
This may sound harsh; in fact, it may be harsh, but there’s a greater message here. If you have taken the time to write something but not edit it, then you don’t hold value in it. If you really want to be hired in any role, you need to make sure that you are putting your best face forward. You wouldn’t show up for an interview with a stain on your shirt. Why would you send an email that is littered with typos?
The same holds true for your website and social media presence. If you are taking the time to build a website, you need to take the time to make sure that it is well done. Before you publish your newest blog post, edit it. Not sure about your editing skills? Ask a friend or colleague to review the post. This tiny amount of effort makes a huge difference in the way you will be viewed. A well-edited blog will be better received than one that is not.
When you are growing a startup, it can be the smallest of items that makes a difference. Yes, you need to make sure that your product or service appeals to your audience, but you also need to make sure that all of the messaging that you send to your audience is clear, concise, and edited.
I know as a startup founder your plate is full. However, it is well worth a few extra minutes of editing, especially if that earns you a few more loyal fans.
