It's not what you're saying, it's how you are saying it.

In my past life as a teacher, a colleague shared a very powerful video titled, "The Power of Words". Its application in a teaching context is fantastic, and it was a great tool to have students consider how they are using their words in writing.

It is amazing then, that 12 year olds understand the power of words, while most businesses do not. 

While walking in a commercial hub today, I gazed adoringly at a shopfront of superb wedding and formal gowns. As an estimate, I believe the average cost of the gowns displayed would be $1500 - $2000. Quite an investment in a dress! As I continued walking, I was greeted by the front doors, which displayed the trading hours. Understandably, this boutique was not open every day of the week, but it was the handwritten note stating the days of operation which made me cringe. Not to mention the "NO FOOD OR DRINKS ALLOWED" sign on the small easel inside the store.    

So, how could they say it better? 

Firstly, unless you are a professional sign writer, or employ the services of one, shopfront signs should be produced on a computer. It does not need to be fancy, but neat, tidy and legible. The type of handwritten sign which features in the store selling thousand dollar gowns can be found in the take away restaurant, or bargain basement store down the road. What kind of message do you think is being sent to your prospective customers? Surely the relatively small investment in having a professional produce a sticker for the inside of the door to state "Thursday and Friday" above the opening hours would pay off in having a professional image to blushing brides wanting to be assured you are capable of making their wedding dreams come true. 

The next order of business is the 'food or drink' sign. Teachers have been told for generations to keep their language for class rules positive, and the same can be said here. Instead of the CAPS LOCK declaration, a more subtle message would work just as well. Perhaps a "To ensure our gowns stay beautiful, please leave all food and drink outside" would do just as well? 

Spelling mistakes, poor grammar, and illegible writing can all damage your professional image, and leave clients wondering if you are really the right person for the job. In this highly competitive economic climate, it makes sense to go the extra mile to ensure that what you are saying is well received by your current and potential clients.