en
sq
Proofreading should be part of your content strategy
Many might think that proofreading is an outdated skill, laboriously done on paper, and only relevant to the book publishing industry, or may even forget it exists.
This is certainly not the case and that the common spellchecker is simply no match for a professional proofreader.
The written word is all around us, digitally accessible almost everywhere, 24/7. Words can inform, inspire, educate and entertain, and in the business world, words are a powerful tool. Used correctly and innovatively they can encourage your audience to take action, whether you are talking to existing customers, internal employees or potential clients.
The words you use need to be engaging, informative, and in the correct tone and language for your audience. Sometimes they need to elicit a specific response and this means your content needs to be succinct, clear and of course, correct.
Content is often written, compiled and published in a pressurized environment. Multiple content editors, busy workloads and tight deadlines mean it is no wonder small mistakes can easily slip through the process.
Substantial resources are invested such as time, energy and creativity in planning, creating and executing a content strategy to ensure your message reaches the audience. Sometimes, all that hard work can be impaired by common errors or a small typo.
One typo or error in your content, copy or communications can detract from the overall impression. Mistakes, however small, convey carelessness, which may undermine your brand’s integrity and the reputation you have worked so hard to build.
Mistakes in your content, no matter how small, convey carelessness.
The power of social media also means that your audience has a readily accessible and far-reaching platform on which to point out any misdemeanors. Within seconds, negative feedback can reach not just you but your entire audience.
Proofreading provides the final polish to your words, ensuring clarity of message. It can provide peace of mind that your communications are the best they can be, and it frees you up to concentrate on what you do best. Proofreading can help you avoid embarrassment, negative feedback, and the time and cost of correcting errors.