Writing workshops

I run bespoke workshops on clear writing skills, delivered in-house to small to medium sized-groups. Workshops are aimed at people who already write as part of their role and would like to write more clearly, liven up their writing and speak more directly to the audience. They're interactive, practical sessions using plenty of examples and exercises. And they're fun!

While we'll look briefly at why and what you write, the focus is on how you write - the mechanics of the writing itself. This supposes you already have an idea of what you want to say, but want help on getting that message across clearly.

I offer a standard course outline that I can tailor to your needs, participants and content. Workshops can be half day (core modules) or full day (including some bonus modules). 

Core modules

Planning your writing​

• Finding the planning technique for you
• Writing for your readers
• Getting your message across

Mechanics of clear writing

• Choosing slim words
• Tightening up language 
• Preferring the active voice
• Using strong verbs
• Using parallel structure​

Bonus modules

• Helping your reader to navigate your content
  
• Writing for different audiences and channels
• Creating clear charts and graphics
• Writing more informally
• Revisiting grammar and punctuation 
• Avoiding common errors
• Applying house style

Testimonials
Would you recommend this course? 

• ​​"Very much so - I think everyone could take something away from it, even if they've been writing for years."
• ​"Definitely - refreshers like this are helpful for people of all levels. The workshop covered basics in a helpful way with easy-to-remember rules to help you put the training into practice."

• ​​"Everyone should take this course." 
•  "Yes - it's useful for tightening writing so we focus attention more clearly on the points we're trying to make."
• "Yes, it was very useful and not at all patronising as some workshops can be."

Rates, logistics and contact

My writing workshops are low cost compared with many corporate training providers, You can choose between a standard course and one tailored beforehand to your organisation and content (these cost a little more). Please get in touch for a non-obligation quote based on your needs. I'm based in Bristol and can travel to you or we can teleconference if you're far away.

How I got into training

I started my career by teaching sociolinguistics to English language undergraduates (this now feels like another lifetime!). Since then I've trained colleagues in editorial and writing skills in many in-house editorial roles, most recently for Development Initiatives in Kenya, Uganda and the UK. I started running my own writing workshops in 2016. I'm an enthusiastic and approachable trainer who will talk passionately about punctuation if you let me.