The Purpose and Contents of an Employee Payroll File

The Purpose and Contents of an Employee Payroll FileThe Purpose and Contents of an Employee Payroll FileThe employee payroll file is the repository for everything that has to do with an employees paycheck. The main reason to create a payroll file is to limit access to the rest of the confidentialinformation that is located in the personnel file. The Purpose of an Employee Payroll File The payroll file enables accounting staff to pay the employee without accessing employee confidential information. Accounting staff can keep payroll records where it makes sense for paying the employee. In instances where payroll and accounting are outsourced, this is an even more recommended practice for the employees payroll records. The payroll file limits accessibility to confidential employee information. The employee payroll file enables accounting and finance staff to have the information they need to pay the employee in a handy location. The location should be secure and out-of-reach to any other employees. You need to impress on accounting staff the fact that the information in the payroll files is confidential and should not be shared without the permission and sign off from HR staff. Nor should accounting staff share any information about employee raises, promotions, bonuses, and any other information that is confidential about employees. philanthropischResources does not need to monitor accountings access to the employee payroll files. As is recommended for related employee files such as the personnel and medical files, you should limit access to the payroll file. Only people who need to have the information to do their job should see the contents. Contents of an Employee Payroll File This is a suggested list of what belongs in an employee payroll file. Offer letter signed by the hiring manager, Human Resources, and employeePay authorization signed by Human Resources and the hiring manager when an employee contract existsW-4 formPaperwork and authorization rela ting to any employee benefit that involves a payroll deductionDirect deposit authorization formSalaried time accounting formsHourly weekly time sheetsTime clock records, where usedAttendance recordsExpense reimbursement requests including documentation and receipts for travel and other authorized expenditures Tuition reimbursement forms and receipts for payment, books, and so forthPay in advance request formsCompany loan documents and payment scheduleGarnishment orders and recordsAuthorization for release of private informationPaperwork relating to each employee raisePaperwork related to any bonus, profit sharing, or recognition awardW-2 formsAuthorization for any other payroll actions that your company permits Also Known Asemployee files,employee records, human resources files, documentation Note Susan Heathfield makes every effort to offer accurate, common-sense, ethical Human Resources management, employer, and workplace advice on this website, but she is not an attorney. The con tent on the site is not to be construed as legal advice. The site has a world-wide audience andemployment laws and regulations varyfrom state to state and country to country, so the articles cannot be definitive on all of them for your workplace. When in doubt, always seek legal counsel. The information on the site is provided for guidance only.

How To Decline a Job Offer (with Letter Examples)

How To Decline a Job Offer (with Letter Examples)How To Decline a Job Offer (with Letter Examples)Whats the best way to decline a job offer? How should you turn down a job if you dont want to take it? There are times when you should turn down a job offer, but what you say or write when you decline depends on your reasons for rejecting it. If the job welchesnt a good fit, for example, but you liked the company, state in your email or phone call that you were impressed with the organization but didnt view the job as a good fit for you. Your response might include a mention of the key skill sets that you would like to employ, level of responsibility toward which you wish to aspire or other elements of the prospective job that were missing. For example, if the target job involved only inside sales, point out that you were interested in a position handling major accounts providing a clear pathway to sales management the possible upside being that the employer thinks of you for anotlageher role currently available or one that might open up in the future. Tips for Turning Down a Job Offer Before sending a declination of offer letter, make koranvers you are positive you do not want the job. If a scenario exists wherein you might take the job (such as a pay increase or other changes in the benefits package), first try to negotiate a counter offer. Once you send a rejection letter, there is almost no chance you will be offered the job again. However, if youve considered the opportunity well and have decided not to accept it, sending a polite, grateful and timely job rejection letter is ?a terrific way to maintain a good relationship with the employer. You never know when, if or how your paths might cross again, so its always a good show of professionalism to exhibit gratitude and timeliness. When You Dont Like the Company If the company is unappealing because of its culture, a prospective supervisor, or its products or services, thanks for the opportunity with a simple reference to the job not being a great fit at this point in your career is sufficient. Candidates are generally better off not expressing specific dissatisfaction with the staff with whom they interacted or sharing any criticisms of the organization. When the Job Doesnt Pay Enough If a job and organization are attractive but the offered salary is insufficient, you might address this issue in your communications. If all efforts to negotiate a higher salary fail to yield the results you require, send a communication expressing your thanks and reaffirming your excitement about the position, stating that you must decline due to the level of the salary. Sometimes an employer will come back to you with a better offer once they see that you are truly willing to walk. Be prepared to discuss a counter offer, if a higher salary would make a difference. What to Include in a Job Rejection Letter Your letter should include the following Expression of appreciation for the offerWrit ten rejection of the offer Address the letter to the person who offered you the position. Include your contact information and phone number, even though it is on file with the employer. Theres no need to give extensive details as to why youre declining the job. Do not include any potentially offensive reasons, such as a poor work environment or feeling uncertain about the companys long-term future and profitability. However, it is appropriate to briefly mention a reason for turning the job down. For example, you might explain that you accepted another offer, decided it was best to stay at your current job, or felt that the position didnt ultimately match your career goals. Whatever the case, keep your explanation brief. As with any communication sent to an employer, its important to make sure that your letter is well written and does not contain typos or grammatical errors. Even in declining a position, all correspondence should be professional. Sample Letters Declining a Job Off er Review the following sample job rejection letters and use them as templates for your own letter. Job Rejection Letter Example 1 (Text Version) Contact NameStreet AddressCity, State Zip CodeDateDear Mr./Ms. Last Name,Thank you very much for offering me the position of Marketing Manager with Hatfield Industries. It was a difficult decision to make, but I have accepted a position with another company.I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to interview me and to share information on the opportunity and your company.Again, thank you for your consideration.Sincerely,Signature (hard copy letter)Your Name ExpandJob Rejection Letter Example 2 (Text Version) Contact NameStreet AddressCity, State Zip CodeDateDear Mr./Ms. Last Name,Thank you very much for offering me the opportunity to work at Bronson Associates. Unfortunately, I will not be accepting the position as it does not fit the path I am taking to achieve my career goals.Once again, Id like to express my gratitude for the offer and my regrets that it didnt work out. You have my best wishes in finding someone suitable for the position.Sincerely,Signature (hard copy letter)Your Name ExpandJob Rejection Email Example 3 (Text Version) Subject Your Name - Unit Coordinator PositionDear Mr./Ms. Last Name,Thank you for offering me the position of Unit Coordinator at Acme Enterprises and for reviewing my counteroffer with management. I fully understand that budgets are tight, but must regretfully decline the position at the current compensation.Once again, I want to thank you so much for your graciousness during the negotiation process. I wish you and Acme all the best.Sincerely,Signature (hard copy letter)Your Name Expand

Write an ideal resume for your job

Write an ideal resume for your jobWrite an ideal resume for your jobHow do you write a resume for a job?In the digital era of cut-throat competition, writing resumes in a proper manner is the strategy to get your desired job. In order to get placed quickly, write your perfect resume by applying these key tricks. These key tricks evaluate your skills and organise them to make an eye-grabbing resume.Pay attention to the GrammarBeing a Grammar nazi is all right when it comes to writing your resume. The companies always look for resumes which have a good proficiency in written English at least. It will not take a second impression to correct your substandard resume. Try to be minimally correct in grammar while writing your bio.Have the format pre-decided The job interview is just waiting for you if you have the right resume format. The format that you decide will determine the job you choose. Every job has diverse requirements and you can design your cv on the basis of your search criter ia.Make aya to sound formal in your languageAny informal tone in your resume is unprofessional and may not be acceptable to some firms. It is not required to use totally corporate terms, but it is favorable to be simple and formal.Sound Confident and StrongExpressing your confidence is a must to outlay your skills in front of your firm. It represents the personality and youre staunch belief system. It helps the company to evaluate you properly and judge your skills.

Staffing Trends to Track in 2014

Staffing Trends to Track in 2014Staffing Trends to Track in 2014Staffing Trends to Track in 2014How can you prepare your staffing firm for the New Year?Watch our 2014 staffing trendsvideo and get readyto accelerate your staffing geschftliches miteinander in 2014.brightcove.createExperiences()TranscriptStart byMoving past your current pricing structureRate sheets are out vernderliche pricing is inPrice each deal individually so your company can move with the economy and you can drive more businessThen, be sure toDiversify your companys strengthsStaffing specialization can be a plus, but it can also lead to dead endsKeep your business moving by diversifying across industries, job functions and client sizeAs you diversify your businessKeep an eye out for on-demand laborWhen companies need specialized talent they need it nowCreate a network of on-demand labor lets you and your clients ramp up fastAlong the way, look forContingent staffing modelsThese might include Vendor Managed Staffi ng, Managed Service Provider and Statement of WorkAs you find top talent dont forget aboutTemp to permCompanies often hire temps to audition new talentPermanent placement of a temp employee can be profitable for your businessAs your business accelerates, remember toKeep your team happyReward your team members based on the quality of people they recruitAnd do all you can to keep your top performers happyAnd no matter where the road takes youKeep sellingWhether business is up or downMake outbound calls to prospects every daySpread the word about your companys services whether your clients are hiring or notDrive your staffing firm to success in 2014Learn moreStaffing 2014 Next Years Hiring SupermodelsStaffing Strategies for a Hyper-Volatile Labor ForceBusiness Convergence Staffing Services and Small Business Needs

Handling a Conditional Job Offer With Letter Examples

Handling a Conditional Job Offer With Letter ExamplesHandling a Conditional Job Offer With Letter ExamplesYou made it through the interview process, beat the competition, and now youre the proud recipient of a job offer letter. Theres just one wrinkle As you read the terms, you see that its a conditional job offer, contingent on completing one or mora additional steps. Depending on the job, you might be asked to undergo a background check, credit check, pre-employment physical, or drug or alcohol screening. You may need to complete these checks before your offer is valid, or you may have a set period of time (30 to 90 days, for example) in which to complete them after starting your job, during which time youll be a probationary hire. In any case, failure to complete these requirements- or failure to pass them- can result in the company revoking the offer or terminating your employment. Conditional job offers are not uncommon, but its important to understand the advantages and disadva ntages of such an offer. AdvantagesThe employer values you and your skills.Meeting conditions is often a matter of routine.Even conditional job offers provide peace of mind.An offer in hand can provide you leverage with other employers.DisadvantagesYou dont have the job quite yet.You might be unwilling or unable to meet conditions.Deadlines might leave you feeling rushed. Conditions Employers Can Place on a Job Offer Most workers in the United States are employed at will, which means that their employers can terminate their employment for any reason, or no reason at all, provided that it isnt discriminatory. Similarly, employers can revoke job offers for almost any reason- with a few exceptions. Employers can ask prospective employees to undergo various kinds of pre-employment screenings, including background and credit checks, pre-employment physicals, and drug screening. However, there are restrictions on how this information can be gathered and used during the employment scre ening process. For example, the Fair Credit Reporting Act dictates that employers must inform candidates in writing and get their written consent before conducting a credit check. In the event that the offer is revoked based on information discovered during the check, the FCRA requires employers to notify candidates and provide them with information on how to dispute the report. Similarly, although its generally legal for employers to ask for a pre-employment physical once theyve extended a conditional job offer, they require all applicants to undergo the same exam. The Americans With Disabilities Act prohibits asking for a medical exam before making an offer. Conditional Offer Letter Example Jane SmithHuman Resources DirectorAcme Corp123 Main StreetAnytown, Nebraska, 68001January 2, 20XXJoseph Sanchez37 Maple DriveAnytown, Nebraska, 68001Dear Joseph,Acme Corp is pleased to offer you the lokalitt of Business Analyst, contingent on completion of a background check and mandatory pre-e mployment drug screening.This is a full-time, exempt position with a starting base salary of $_______. If you accept the offer, you will report to Kelly Quinn, Senior Business Analyst. This position has a start date of January 15, 20XX.Please see the attached job description and benefits package for details on your duties, health insurance, and retirement benefits, stock options, and eligibility for the bonus program.If you agree to these terms, please sign below and return this letter in the next seven business days.Sincerely,Jane SmithHuman Resources DirectorAcme CorpI hereby acknowledge that I have read and understood the terms and conditions of this conditional offer of employment, and I accept the offer. I understand that my employment with Acme Corp is considered at will, meaning that either party may terminate the employment relationship at any time.SignatureDate Expand How to Respond Respond as quickly as possible to a conditional job offer. If you need more time to weigh other offers or consult with family members, ask for this time as soon as you can. Failure to respond in a timely fashion may cost you the job offer. Include the following a thank-you for the offer, your written acceptance, the terms and conditions of the offer, including the salary and job title, and the starting date. Follow the hiring managers lead in terms of tone and format. If they use a formal salutation, e.g. Ms. Johnson, in their offer letter, do the same in your response. Include all requested enclosures, such as a signed offer letter, noncompete agreement, or other information or documents listed in the offer. Sample Acceptance Letter Joseph Sanchez37 Maple DriveAnytown, Nebraska, 68001January 3, 20XXJane SmithHuman Resources DirectorAcme Corp123 Main Street?Anytown, Nebraska, 68001Dear Jane,Im excited to formally accept your offer of a position of Business Analyst at ACME Corporation, starting January 15, 20XX. Im looking forward to working with you and Kelly and gettin g to know the rest of the team at ACME.As we discussed, my starting salary will be $________, and my benefits will be ______________.Ive enclosed my signed offer letter, and am happy to provide any other information that will be useful during the employment screening process. Please feel free to reach out to me on my cell at 555-555-5555 if you have any questions.Best regards,Joseph Sanchez signature Expand

What Is So Fascinating About Amazing Resume Examples?

What Is So Fascinating About Amazing Resume Examples? Since you may see, theres a wide variety of freebies to pick from. All you need to do is simply edit the document to include your own personal info. Once you have decided on your perfect resume template from our selection, follow our totally free expert guidance about ways to craft the ideal modern resume. Relying on the situation, sure sections could need to be erased or substituted with extra associated sections. Studies reveal that tailoring your resume for a particular position is considerably more powerful than sending a generic application. Also make certain that you tailor the document to the job youre applying for. Try to remember, when youve finished personalizing your resume, youre not prepared to fill out an application yet. Ideas, Formulas and Shortcuts for Amazing Resume Examples Your resume needs to address an issue for employers (which is the reason why theyre hiring). Make certain you didnt miss whatever could cost you the job that you dream about You are going to want to do a little bit of research beforehand to know whether its appropriate given your prospective employer, but nevertheless, it can be an excellent way to be noticed. Job searchers have plenty of choices when it has to do with creating their resume. The Downside Risk of Amazing Resume Examples There are many resume templates which are freely out there on-line. Again, various templates are offered for use in any business. Dont be scared to break from tradition when it has to do with the format or medium of your resume. The upcoming free resume template is made in the shape of a brochure. A traditional style resume template is also simple to customize. You ought to be aware that a resume template isnt destined to remain a template. In the modern competitive market, you need over a template. Resume examples at no cost will help you in a step-by-step process on find out the way to compose your resume. Men and women utilize a variety of resume templates using different type of plan approaches, but ultimately its always likely to come to the simple fact that your resume should convey a very clear message above your skills, your experience, and also why youd be the ideal candidate for the position. Resume templates are one method to guarantee structure behind your resume. Utilizing a resume template has turned into an acceptable and smart practice for several explanations.If you just have 6 seconds to catch the interest of a recruiter, using color and graphics is a remarkable place to begin. Visual resume is about visuals, utilizing visual facets of graphic design to permit visual imagery and total visual appearance to speak for itself. Our creative templates permit you to stick out from the crowd. Each one of our creative style templates offer you a perfectly balanced mixture of personality, professionalism and a little style. Resume for profession is crucial to your attention. Th e initial one is about outlining your abilities and your availability in a special job position. As you want to opt for work, you have to be sure that you have perfect abilities for the positions by which youre interested. Your jobs might be varied, your experience and abilities vast, and it can be hard getting it all on paper. New Step by Step Roadmap for Amazing Resume Examples There are various kinds of paper apart from regular typing paper. Make certain there arent any misspelled words Its essential that you make certain the writing on your resume looks good. Hastily written resumes will leave a terrible impression with the small business. Whatever They Told You About Amazing Resume Examples Is Dead Wrong...And Heres Why Based on the business or position youre applying for, it may ask that you bring some personality. You also receive a feeling of what information you dont have to include. Every individuals resume looks slightly different. 11 Wonderful IT Resume Exa mples LiveCareer The huge majority of persons are left asking your self how they will need to format and compose a resume pattern that can be noticed by the possible firms. Resumes dont have to take so much of your time but still shouldnt be neglected. You have to get creative. To show yourself comprehensively, you will need to earn a proper resume. You need your resume to be simple to read.

Happy America Recycles Day Going Green with Video Interviewing

Happy America Recycles Day Going Green with Video InterviewingWhile its important to mind the environment year-round, sometimes we need a little reminder. This is why, starting in 1997, November 15th has become the day we remember ur commitment to wiederverwendung to help the environment.On America Recycles Day, people all over the country can pledge to recycle more in their daily lives and even join a recycling event in their community. Most importantly, however, the day reminds us that going green is truly essential for our future.America Recycles Day isnt the only day we think about the importance of going green. During the recent presidential race, voters looked to the candidates stances on environmental issues and energy policy. In fact, 67 percent of voters ranked a candidates environmental policies as either important or very important. An even larger 77 percent said the same about the candidates energy policies.With climate change and the need for greener technologies, its im possible for businesses to ignore the benefit of going green for both the environment and their own bottom line. When it comes to hiring, for example, companies should be looking at the greenest and most environmentally efficient way of connecting with candidates video bewerberinterviewing.Video interviewing is truly a great way to cut down your carbon footprint. As a hiring platform, video interviewing is not only saving you time and money, but also it can be a powerful tool in the fight to save Mother Nature.Here are a few ways you can go green with video interviewingGather the Whole Team With No MileageBig hiring decisions often have to be made fast. You dont want talented candidates slipping through your fingers because you dragged your feet making a job offer. At the same time, its hard to get everyone on your kollektiv on the same page. Some members of your hiring team might be slammed and have no time to attend an in-person meeting. Others might be traveling and therefore not even in your geographic region.During the traditional hiring process, it was necessary to get the team together to discuss top prospects and make final hiring decisions. But thanks to video interviewing, your hiring teams location is no longer an insurmountable issue. Live video interviews can be recorded and shared with the whole team. Your team can also watch one-way video interviews straight from their mobile devices.Thanks to the team collaboration built into the system, notes, impressions, and discussions can be shared with the whole team no matter what zip code they call home. Theres no mileage necessary to collaborate on important hiring decisions and snap up the talented candidates your company needs. Mother Nature, and your workers packed schedules, will surely thank you.No Need to Buckle Up for TakeoffFlying a candidate across the country for an interview will leave your company with a fairly substantial carbon footprint. Not only is it not particularly environmentally-fr iendly, its also downright expensive. However, with the war for talent continuing to rage, you cant really afford to limit your search to your geographic area.This is where video interviewing can really help your company find the best candidates and help the environment. Instead of flying out a talented candidate to meet the whole team, schedule a video interview instead.Video interviewing can save companies up to 67 percent of the traveling cost associated with hiring. Plus, you still get that same personal connection you would in any face-to-face meeting. Who knew that going green could actually save you money?Save a Tree, Record a Video ResumeDuring the hiring process, resumes often end up eating a lot of paper. Many hiring managers will print out a candidates resume to have a hard copy to review, and most candidates will bring at least one printed copy of their resume to an in-person interview.In the spirit of America Recycles Day, you could nix the tree-killing paper and instru ct candidates to use a video resume as a way to cut down on needless paper pushing.Plus, in a video resume, you can more clearly see a candidates communication skills, personality, and passion for the job. By encouraging candidates to record a video resume, you save a tree while actually getting to know them better even earlier than during the traditional hiring process.On America Recycles Day, its important to remember Mother Nature needs our help. Its essential we all do our part to protect our environment. Video interviewing and video resumes are simple ways to make your company a little bit greener- and make the hiring process a little bit easier and more cost-effective.How is your company going to celebrate America Recycles Day? What green initiatives do you have in your hiring process? Share in the comments

6 Tips for Dealing with a Younger Boss

6 Tips for Dealing with a Younger Boss6 Tips for Dealing with a Younger BossGetting a new manager typically translates into a different working environment, different expectations, and different communication styles. And a significant age difference between you and your new manager can make these differences mora pronounced. While an age difference can certainly result in an odd dynamic, there are several things you can do so you and your new young anfhrer get off to the best possible start.1. Own your reactionIts common these days to have multiple generations in the workplace. But when your babo is significantly younger than you, it can lead to negative emotions. A study by the Journal of Organizational Behavior found the average age differences determine how frequently older subordinates and their coworkers experience negative emotions These emotion frequency levels, in turn, relate to company performance.You may tempted to question why your company made the decision to hire or pr omote this younger person. What does it say about your experience and how the company values your contributions? These questions are normal, so before you draw conclusions, acknowledge your reaction to the news. Its ok to feel this way. After you experience your emotions, ask yourself why its bothering you. Is this a job you wanted? Are you afraid your boss doesnt have the experience to lead well? If you are uncomfortable for one of these reasons, give your new boss some time. They will likely answer these questions. If you realize youre only upset because of your ego, take a minute to consider changing your feelings toward this change. You have the ability to make an impact on your own thoughts.2. Acknowledge the elephant in the roomYoure probably not the only one feeling awkward about the situation. In fact, your boss may have similar feelings. If you feel the tension, talk about it. You can make a joke about the strange relationship, but address it so it doesnt impact you and you r teams ability to be successful. You can see this conversation as an opportunity to build strong communication with your new boss.3. Set expectationsAsk your boss how they work best. Do they respond to texts or emails first, or would they prefer a call? Are they a morning person, or do they prefer to stay late to finish a project? Setting expectations about work habits early in the relationship can alleviate potential miscommunication. It also helps to know how to reach your boss quickly if issues arise.4. Share your knowledgeBe confident in what you bring to the team. Your experience gives you insight into situations your boss may not have been exposed to yet. Share the knowledge youve gained in your years of working. This puts you in a position to be your bosss trusted resource. The more your boss understands your knowledge and abilities, the more opportunities you will have for your own growth.5. Keep an open mindJust because someone is younger doesnt mean you cant learn from th em. According to Harvard Business School Press Geeks and Geezers, The one key asset that our leaders share, whether young or old, is their adaptive capacity. The ability to process new experience and find their meaning and to integrate them in to ones life is the signature skill of leaders.Consider how your new boss was able to rise to this point in their career. Whats the key skill they have that could help you be more successful? It may be management skills, something technical, or how to navigate the corporate environment. Regardless of what positive quality of theirs you settle on, be sure to keep an open mind. Youll learn more than you mightve expected.6. Build your networkUse this new experience to build your network. Ask contacts if theyve had a similar experience, and use their knowledge as additional support to navigate the relationship with your new boss. Theres a chance it wont work out with a new boss, regardless of their age. Building strong communication in your networ k can help you find new opportunities with other companies if you need to move on.In the end, a new boss, regardless of age, will change your work environment. The key to managing this change is open communication and building trust. Focus on what you want to accomplish and how you can work with your new team to get there together.A version of this post previously appeared onFairygodboss, the largest career community that helps women get the inside scoop on pay, corporate culture, benefits, and work flexibility. Founded in 2015, Fairygodboss offers company ratings, job listings, discussion boards, and career advice.

Customer Service Associate Job Description Sample

Customer Service Associate Job Description SampleCustomer Service Associate Job Description SampleCustomer Service Associate Job Description SampleThiscustomer service associatesample job description can assist in your creating a job application that will attract job candidates who are qualified for the job. Feel free to revise this job description to meet your specific job duties and job requirements.Customer Service Associate Job ResponsibilitiesMaintains customer relationship by responding to inquiries documenting actions.Customer Service Associate Job DutiesPrepares for customer inquiries by studying products, services, and customer service processes.Responds to customer inquiries by understanding inquiry reviewing previous inquiries and responses gathering and researching information assembling and forwarding information verifying customers understanding of information and answer.Records customer inquiries by documenting inquiry and response in customers accounts.Improves qualit y service by recommending improved processes identifying new product and service applications.Updates job knowledge by participating in educational opportunities.Accomplishes customer service and organization mission by completing related results as needed.Customer Service Associate Skills and QualificationsProduct Knowledge, Informing Others, Data Entry Skills, Organization, Analyzing Information , Verbal Communication, Reporting Skills, Managing Processes, Customer Focus, General Consulting Skills, Multi-taskingEmployers Post a job in minutes to reach candidates everywhere. Job Seekers Search Customer Service Associate Jobs and apply on now. Learn more abouthow to hireSample Interview Questions How to InterviewBenchmarking 101 How to Pay New HiresHR Salary Information Employee Compensation

Build Your Written Communication Skills

Build Your Written Communication SkillsBuild Your Written Communication SkillsWritten communication skills can be useful, even crucial, for career success. If youre good at business writing, youre more likely to create a good impression. But if you arent getting the homilie across clearly with your words, your chances for getting jobs, promotions, raises and bonuses may be harmed.Whether youre sending a winning cover letter to a hiring manager, a memo to a colleague, a report to your team or an email to a client, crisp, highly focused and error-free writing signals that youre someone who is organized, knowledgeable and detail oriented.Conversely, written communications that are long-winded, imprecise or strewn with typos leave readers wondering how you handle other aspects of your job. If your business writing abilities are a weakness, the time to improve is now.How can you develop written communication skills?Writing can be intimidating, but as with most things, practice helps. So d oes learning the basics. You can do that by taking a business-writing course at your local community college or in an online workshop. Asking a trusted coworker, friend or family member to review your words can also help.To get you started, here are five steps that can make a real difference in developing effective written communication skills1. Have the right mindset Before you begin any writing project, gather the necessary resources and have them nearby, including research materials. The more prepared you are, the more relaxed youll be as you start. First-rate writing does not happen by accident. Before placing a single finger on the keyboard, take a moment to organize your thoughts and identify the primary purpose of the written communication. Who is your audience? What do you want people to know or do when they finish reading what youve written? Keep those answers top of mind as you write.Robert Half has been helping job seekers find great career opportunities since 1948. Let u s help you find the right job for you.GET HELP FINDING WORK2. Sort it outMake sure you have a game plan in place. What is the main message you want to get across? Its helpful to handwrite all the key points you want to make in advance so you dont forget any. Also create a brief outline of what youd like to cover in a logical order. This step can be particularly useful for larger documents that need to address many issues.3. Write in a straightforward mannerProfessionals with strong written communication skills know its critical to get to the point immediately with any message or you may lose your audience. Between emails, texts, the web, memos and reports, people are on information overload - and they wont wade through overly long messages.Many people also weigh down their written communications with buzzwords, cliches, jargon and pretentious prose. This approach only muddles the message. For example, Lets have a quick meeting is much better than Lets mindshare to align and synergi ze our deliverables. Impress readers with your cogent thinking, not your mastery of corporate-speak. Nobody will miss the overused cliches and fancy $5 words.The KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) philosophy is a good one to follow. Include summaries at the beginning of big reports, and use bullets or numbers to separate individual points (like weve done with this blog post). Also avoid using acronyms or industry jargon. Use too many confusing or annoying abbreviations and your audience may move on to another pressing task, missing your message altogether.4. Stay professionalAs you try to improve your written communication skills, take everything you write seriously, steering clear of any controversial or sensitive subjects. This can be easier said than done. Seriously, who doesnt want to joke around with coworkers in emails about a ridiculous new company policy? You never know when your email or other message could be forwarded, though. When in doubt, think about whether youre comfortab le with the entire company - including your boss - reading what youve written.5. Check it again - and againMaybe you feel like your written communication skills are on track as you make a compelling case for updating your offices phone system. However, as you put together your masterpiece, youre moving along so quickly that the document is filled with typos and spelling mistakes. No worries, you tell yourself. Youll just run a spellcheck, and all will be fine, right?No. Spellcheck can and does miss a wide range of errors. So its worth spending a few extra minutes to reread messages yourself, and even have another person check them or read them aloud to yourself.Build your written communications skills and always review what you write for typos, tone and clarity. That way, you can make sure youre getting your point across clearly and wowing people for the right reasons.Subscribe to the Robert Half newsletter for free articles and resources to help you succeed in your career - all sent directly to your inbox. Tags