You Are What You Write: Writing in the Digital Age

Not since the invention of the printing press has there been such a revolution in writing
Even basic notions of reading and writing are changing as technology replaces traditional modes of communication.

The most profound of these changes is that we are writing more than ever before. Indeed, the explosive growth of technology has been accompanied by the burgeoning growth of new digital media including email, blogs, instant messaging, text messaging, listservs, and more. To operate in this realm and communicate using these media require skills in a new literacy: Digital Literacy.

Are you digitally literate? Sadly, many of us are not. Do you know the components of digital literacy? Let’s take a look:

1. Analyzing and understanding your audience
2. Thinking about your communication and writing purpose
3. Applying skills of Digital Rhetoric
4. Combining text and image for a complete message
5. Creating an experience readers want to come back to again and again and again

To read more about Digital Literacy, send me a note and I’ll get you a copy of my book, Text, Literacy and Rhetoric in the Digital Realm.

Reading, Writing, and Rhetoric: Presenting a Polished Image

Whether you hire someone to create one for you, or you do it yourself, your image is all about how you:

• Present yourself through your writing
• Plan your messages
• Participate in social networking venues
• Develop a strategy for your online presence

These things are important for anything you’re doing on the web.

However, don’t forget traditional media, and those incredibly impressive things like handwritten thank you notes, well-written proposals, reports, manuals, as well as things in the creative realm such as short stories, books, and poems.

Technology Savvy Writing and Consulting

When it comes to writing in any form, I would love to help. I’m in the process of designing several training programs you can take online using email and a video program like Skype so stop back soon for more information. I also love to work with people one-on-one as a coach, something that takes whatever form works for you.

On the other hand, give me a shout if you need things written, such as:

• Stunning copy for your website that not only achieves your business objective but also meets search engine criteria for top ranking
• Online training programs for internal and external audiences
• Content for websites and email newsletter text
• Articles to submit to online magazines and content sites
• And whatever else you can think of!