Question

There are arguments that the importance of following a formal writing process has changed in recent years due to the introduction of new communication media including social media. What are your thoughts on this argument?

Answer 1

In your response, consider the following: the role more traditional writing continues to play in today’s business world; the role, if any, for formal business communications; the ways new forms of communications may have shaped your work (volunteer or professional).

Arguments around formal business writing and its importance can be strong for both sides. Successfulcompanies should rely on both formal and informal business communication. Each has its place in an organization. Companies that only communicate formally rarely stray from the rules and protocols. However, informal corporate cultures encourage spontaneity and casual networks. Regardless of the company culture, organizations grow through a balance of formal and informal communications. I do believe that the styles of formal writing have changed and are influenced by changes in social media.

Formal writing and communication is important in today’s business world. This style of communicating has a clear purpose and is structured and direct. In my organization, often times these formal communications lead to informal ones. Example: a formal email regarding a town hall meeting, for which the purpose of discussing our current patient experience status; could evolve into an open forum for discussion.

Social media is clearly having an impact on how we communicate, not only in our personal lives but in business as well. As stated by Calloway, “The words that surround us every day influence the words we use and because the language we use to communicate with each other tends to be more flexible than formal writing, the combination of informal, personal communication and the mass audience afforded by social media is a recipe for rapid change.”