Writing and Workplace Etiquette with Jennifer Sargent

In most cases, everyone has to start as an intern or in an entry level position, no matter the industry, and communication will be necessary. On Feb 23, 2016 Professor Jennifer Sargent, Visiting Associate Professor of Writing at Dartmouth College, returned to MLDP to share her knowledge about writing in the workplace and on the importance of work etiquette.

Sargent explained how leadership qualities can carry over to writing tasks and etiquette, as new employees will not have official leadership or managerial roles and will have to set themselves apart in other ways. By showing up, being pro-active in your communication, and by asking for feedback are all signs of initiation, a leadership quality.

She gave the participants a full breakdown of the do’s and don’ts of writing in the workplace to effectively execute those actions. "You want your words to be clear, convey excellent content, and to reflect upon you as a young professional with leadership potential," emphasized Sargent. She spent the most time going over message content, knowing your audience, using appropriate tone, and avoiding intergenerational words, slang, and idioms.

After the session, one MLDP participant, Erin Huffer said, “Today was really applicable. I am in the midst of applying for jobs and written communication and etiquette are so important.”

Submitted by Mary Sieredzinski ’17, Winter 2016 MLDP Student Program Assistant