Words That Work: The Ultimate Guide to Writing with Confidence

Melissa Harris and Jenn Bane share 5 key insights from Everybody Needs an Editor: The Essential Guide to Clear and Effective Writing.

Are you a writer? Chances are, you are—whether or not it’s your day job. From crafting heartfelt birthday cards and memorable wedding toasts to firing off texts, emails, and social media posts, the written word is central to how we connect, express ourselves, and advance in our careers. In fact, mastering a clear and impactful writing style might be the most powerful way to stand out professionally—and set yourself apart from the AI bots increasingly crowding the conversation.

Here to help are Melissa Harris and Jenn Bane, authors of the new book Everybody Needs an Editor: The Essential Guide to Clear and Effective Writing. Melissa, a former journalist with 15 years at outlets like the Orlando Sentinel and Chicago Tribune, is now the founder and CEO of the marketing agency M. Harris & Co. Jenn is an award-winning writer and creative director at the firm. Together, they’ve created a practical guide to help us all write with clarity and confidence. Scroll down to hear 5 of their key ideas.

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The 5 Key Insights:

1. Have an elevator pitch ready.

2. Not everything belongs in an email.

3. Bad news should be delivered in person.

4. Be kind and direct in your feedback.

5. Leave people alone.

Hear Melissa and Jenn’s top five tips for effective writing: