1. From word nerd to business leader: How a style guide can improve your communication tactics and inspire better business among the leaders of your organization

2. Your presenter: Rebecca Anderson Managing editor at Ragan Communications, former Web editor for the Tribune Company and journalist. Reach her at rebeccaa@ragan.com.

3. As if you have nothing better to do … Why style matters. “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds.” -Ralph Waldo Emerson A foolish inconsistency is the hobgoblin of corporate communications. -David R. Murray Consistency: What’s inside is outside and what’s outside is inside.

4. Why do a style guide? The case to management A style guide will save everyone time. (That’s why journalists memorize them, they’re in a hurry.) It could save the company from perceived cluelessness. by employees and the public. Employees understand communication that is clearly written, jargon free and correct.

5. Eats Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss http://eatsshootsandleaves.com/ESLquiz.html The Office Professional’s Guide by Erin McKean When words collide by Lauren Keller and Duncan McDonald Elements of Style by E.B. White and William Strunk AP, MLA

6. THANK YOU. And as you go… The most valuable of all talents is that of never using two words when one will do. -Thomas Jefferson When you wish to instruct, be brief; that men’s minds take in quickly what you say, learn its lesson, and retain it faithfully. Every word that is unnecessary only pours over the side of a brimming mind. -Cicero Any fool can make things bigger, more complex, and more violent. It takes a touch of genius--and a lot of courage--to move in the opposite direction. -Albert Einstein