voice
the author’s style, the quality that makes his or her writing unique, and which conveys the author’s attitude, personality, and character
I remember the afternoon a friend turned to me at the end of a long-term project. “I’m going to miss your weekly updates. I smile when I read them — I can almost hear you talking to me.”
People were paying attention to my information-packed e-mails because they imagined a conversation. I’d found my voice.
I don’t use my own voice, though, when I’m writing for someone else. I find their voice. I get to know the school board candidate’s deep-seated beliefs so voters hear her speaking through her fundraising appeals. I study the way the emcee for a benefit concert talks so he’ll feel like a natural delivering the opening remarks I’m drafting.
I spend time with the people for whom I write. I need to know how they think and what they sound like before I help them choose their words.
Whether or not you’re an articulate writer or engaging speaker, you have ideas and plans worth expressing well. On occasion, it’s critical to express them with absolute clarity. Or to find just the right words when you don’t have time to look for all of them. That’s when you need help — organizing your thoughts, crafting your message.
Think about the stars of late night comedy. Each has a distinctive style, each has been wildly successful writing comedy — and each has a full-time staff churning out the evening’s monologue. No matter who writes the material you deliver, it’s important that the message and voice remain uniquely yours. A seminar audience wants to see the same “you” during your speech, the Q&A session AND the coffee break. Visitors to your office or conference room want to shake hands with someone whose character and style are clearly reflected in your website’s design and content.
I can find you the words you need, delivered in your own voice. Whether your much-edited draft needs fresh eyes and ears, or your outline hasn’t yet made it to a cocktail napkin, I can help. The best way to begin is by arranging a meeting.