Business Writing Skills

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

1. Apply effective business communication principles

• Identify the purpose and objective of written communication
• Choose appropriate formats (letters, emails, memos, reports)
• Understand audience needs and expectations

2. Gather and organise information

• Use the 5Ws and H method
• Check content for accuracy, bias, stereotyping or offensive language
• Work with industry-specific terminology and legal text requirements

3. Write clearly using Plain Language

• Reduce wordiness and avoid outdated or complicated vocabulary
• Structure writing for a positive “unloading rate” (easy to read and understand)
• Apply the 5Cs of writing: Clear, Concise, Correct, Complete, Courteous

4. Apply correct tone and voice

• Identify emotional and connotative meanings of words
• Avoid negative, superior or patronising tone
• Choose tone appropriate for purpose and audience

5. Format business documents professionally

• Structure letters, emails and memos using modern, standard formats
• Apply open punctuation, block layout and correct paragraph order
• Write effective subject lines and professional closes

6. Edit and proofread effectively

• Identify grammar, punctuation and spelling errors
• Apply editing techniques to produce a “mailable copy”
• Use readability tools such as the Gunning Fog Index

1. Introduction to Brilliant Business Writing
2. Text Features & Conventions: Collecting and Checking Information
3. Composing Text Using Plain Language
4. Editing for Accuracy and Clarity
5. Correct Business Formats: Letters, Emails, Memos
6. Evaluating Your Writing: Practical Application & Final Assessment

Grade 10 (NQF level 2) and  Basic English literacy is recommended.

• Classroom-based training
• Blended or online options available
• Includes individual and group activities, case studies and practical writing tasks