justplainbil

Just Plain Bill

“Your writing has no style!”

Throughout my life, I’ve received many comments about the quality of my work, with most of the remarks having been of little, or no value at all. A good example of this came from a graduate assistant, who, after reading one of my papers in my doctoral course of study, said to me, “Your paper covers the question, but you have no style.” (Emphasis added.)

While I received an ”A” on the 40-page paper, that comment stuck with me, and over the past 40 years I’ve continued to wonder where and how I might acquire “style.”

I appreciate a certain style of writing in the many fiction and professional books I’ve read. For many years, I’ve been producing literally hundreds of resumes and cover letters for colleagues, family members, and students in my college classes – in my own “style.”

In addition, as a successful practicing learning and development professional for the past 32 years, I’ve designed and developed hundreds of training programs, many of which have been recognized as innovative and impactful. One specific compliment I remain proud of to this very day came from a senior company officer who defined my work as “mission critical.” To me, one can demonstrate effective, practical, and functional writing, which may or may not have “style.” Perhaps “style” is different from exceptional, and maybe much different from effective?

For full disclosure, I’m blessed by being able to work with the world’s best editor, Allyn Geer, a friend from Wells Fargo wholesale mortgage days, who helps me with mechanics and other stuff – allowing my personal “style” to come through a little more clearly (clear) (clearer)…

I also believe in the words of wisdom from my college Humanities professor, Jonathan Edwards: “The best (only) way to learn how to write, is to write.”

Finally, this blog is more about the relative benefit, or lack thereof, from comments that are likely judgmental, or simply the expression of one’s opinion.

I’ve learned an important lesson along the way – how the feedback I provide must be offered in a manner that includes how the recipient will benefit in a positive way, changing their work, growing their skills – quite possibly developing their personal “style” along their own way…