Writing effectively at WHO
This course will help you explore the subject of effective writing by examining examples of both ineffective and effective writing. Effective writing, however, can mean many things to different people.
Consider the following statements made by WHO staff on the question of effective writing. What do these mean to you in your own position as a writer at WHO? Do you agree?
- A proposal could be rejected because it seems sloppy or disorganized.
- Good writing can create wonderful opportunities in making sure our programmes are recognized.
- Our writing needs to be worldwide. There's never been a greater need for integration of efforts. It is a holistic approach.
- With correspondence, you need to think about how a person receives it.
- Writing is important. Donors don’t forget and they themselves are accountable – so we have to be too.
- Good writing remembers the human factor, the reason we’re doing our work.
- Effective writers have clear objectives. They link their activities to impact.
- Good reporting is part of a larger process. Proposals, programme activities, and results are all part of the cycle.
- You have to know your audience when you write.
- The issues with good writing are getting to the point and knowing your audience.
- Proofreading catches mistakes, saves time.
These ideas of good organization, reader focus, and integrating your writing with that of others at WHO are the focus of this module.
