Trade Tips:Six Guidelines for Using the Exclamation Point!

By Nicole HayesHelpful Hints

forPublic

Relations Professionals

Though the exclamation point is

meant to convey enthusiasm, overuse

can appear like you are yelling at someone.

In a PR Daily article,Deborah Gaines writes that “people who get excited about every

little thing are perceived as flighty

and unprofessional…”

…while those who never show sparks

seem dull and plodding.”

Here are Gaines’ guidelines for the use of exclamation points in business:

1. Use sparingly

“They’re supposed to add punch, but

sprinkling them too liberally dilutes the intended effect.”

The exception:

Using certain words without an exclamation

point can sound sarcastic or derisive.

Consider:

“Well, that’s fabulous.”

vs.

“Well, that’s fabulous!”

2. One is enough

Multiple !!! suggest that you’re really

worked up.The result is annoying

at best and toxic at worst.

3. Don’t combine withother punctuation

marks

LOL and TTYL don’t belong in business and

neither does

?!

4. Consider the context

The more casual the form of communication

—text messages, friendly emails and

blog posts—the more flexible your writing

can be.

Keep it formal for proposals, company memos and other

external communications.

5. Get personal

Sometimes it’s appropriate to exhibit a personal interest—say,

when a co-worker has a baby

or gets an award.

5. Share your enthusiasm

As long as you’re sincere,

few people will object to accolades like:

“Great job!” or “Well done!”

This presentation was adapted from our Voice Matters Blog.

To learn more about McKinney & Associates, visit www.mckpr.com

McKinney & Associates was founded in 1990 with a commitment to social justice that has prevailed for more than 20 years. From the beginning,

McKinney passionately and skillfully practiced Public Relations with a Conscience for local, national and international organizations.

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