Here's a way to be more creative with your language when doing the never-ending tasking of framing up a topic for your audience.

When you're a communicator, you avoid words that are obscure to the reader. That applies to punctuation, too.

"That's the best!" you say. "That's the worst!" you say.

That's among the weakest ways to express yourself. Here's why -- and how to fix it.

We usually ask, "What's the topic?"

Stop that.

Instead, first ask what you want the reader to do after they’ve read it.

Adverbs aren’t your friends – but are they ever useful?

Yes! When they change the meaning of the sentence!

Check out today’s super-sized video for a practical rule on using adverbs.

My favorite writing tips are the ones you can use this instant. Here are three ways to speed things up when you’re writing a fact sheet.

Check out today’s video!

…is the thing they remember most.

Whether writing or talking, put your request for the end – the very end.

(See? Put it at the end, just like that.)

Check the video!

Don’t sweat out a paragraph. Instead, make a list of sentences.

This approach is guaranteed to help you stop writing filler – and stick to the facts.

Saves time. Sounds smarter. Makes the job easier.

Just listen to the handsome guy in the video.

Greet them. Then…

… don’t say a word.

Stand in the quiet as long as you like. Audiences are desperate for you to fill the silence – so you’ll gain their complete attention.

My favorite speaking tip – check it out!

If you’re writing to inform, you’re not connecting with the audience.

People need a reason to go where you’re leading. They need a goal.

Write to persuade – every time.

Not only will you be more compelling, the writing will come easier because you’re focused on the action you want readers (or listeners) to take.