|  Get more value out of your time and effort by giving your writing an assertive burst!
Your readers want to feel confident that the information they're receiving is without a doubt the best for them. This confidence is often a direct result of the author's writing personality: assertive, aggressive, or passive. "Do this or else" Aggressive writing personalities are risky and can tarnish an author's brand. This is identified by negative words or expressions, interrogative sentences, content against reader interests, violations of the rights of any persons mentioned, or attempts to manipulate readers in a dishonest manner. "Do this ... at your leisure" On the other side of the spectrum - not to be confused with passive voice - passive writing personalities cause a major drop in authority. They are indecisive, lack self-respect, and leave much to be desired for the reader. "Do this" Assertive writing personalities are balanced and motivating. Assertion shows the author values their writing as well as exhibits confidence in direct statements while maintaining respect. Whether you're an expert taking advantage of the incredible benefits content marketing yields or you're a professional writer building your portfolio, use these assertive writing tips to encourage reader confidence in your writing. Identifying Non-Assertive Words These passive words sap authority: So ... Many authors will attempt to add emphasis to a statement by using the word "so." For example, "So if you're looking ..." is a passive way of showing the reader has options, but they don't have to commit to it. Dropping the "so" creates an assertive and confident personality: "If you're looking ..." Just ... Often used to convey "a short time ago" (e.g., "he was just here") or "exactly" (e.g., "she's just like her mother"), "just" is often used as a tentative buffer to tone down what may appear to be an aggressive personality. Unfortunately, this also loses assertive personality. For example, the insertion of "just" in "just take a moment to consider" turns the phrase from assertive to pleading with the reader. "Take a moment" ... lose the "just." Practice: Inspect your writing for any non-assertive words or phrases. Is there a more direct approach you can use? Strive to select words that will strengthen your tone and motivate your readers by steering clear of passive word choices. Simplify and Use Vibrant Action Verbs Use bolder action verbs to further captivate your audience. Instead of "communicate," you might "advocate" a stance, "clarify" your position, or "correspond" with someone. Rather than "achieve efficiency," perhaps you "maximize" or "optimize" value. To give your writing an added level of precision, simplify statements by removing needless words. For example: - "The approach is an improvement on" becomes "The approach improves"
- "The reason for this" becomes "Because"
- "The article is a generalization of" becomes "The article generalizes"
Practice: Select a paragraph of your writing. Rework the sentences by removing verbiage and adding bolder action verbs. Be careful to not sacrifice emphasis or the overall message you want to convey. Additional Assertive Writing Tips Word choice and construction play a large role in writing assertively. Apply these additional tips to refine your writing and captivate readers: Active Voice - Exchange passive voice (subject receives) for active voice (subject acts) to achieve more direct and concise writing. For example: "Dogs are loved by people" (passive) vs. "People love dogs" (active). Keep passive voice in your back pocket because there's always a time and a place for it. Point of View - Put the reader in the piece by using the second person whenever possible. Statements like "when one attempts to perform the unachievable" will completely wash over readers. Turn the phrase by using the second person - "when you attempt the unachievable" - and you'll turn heads. Additionally, put yourself in the piece, but don't overdo it. Too much "I" can make your piece egocentric. Match your audience's reading level by selecting your words and phrases wisely to achieve simplicity and easy comprehension, but have fun with language! Try out vivid adjectives, nouns, and strong action verbs to give your writing "Oomph!" Your readers will thank you for the assertive color you add to your niche and in return you will build confidence in your writing, engage a loyal readership, and build exposure to your platform. What other non-assertive or passive words or phrases do you think undermine writing? Have you found your writing leans aggressive, passive, or assertive? What tips can you offer fellow authors in writing assertively? Click here to let us know - we'd love to hear from you! Additional resources to strengthen your tone and writing skills: - Passive or Active Voice: Which Should You Use? [Learn more]
- Descriptive Writing Examples and Methods to Engage Readers [Learn more]
- 5 Steps to Gutting Your First Draft [Learn more]
- Guide to Entertaining: Writing Informative Content with a Creative Twist [Learn more]
- Create Strong Emotional Drivers to Engage Readers Learn more]
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To Your Article Writing Success & Passion!
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