Lewis’ Note: The Rule of Three example is often referred to as the Dear Sally example, but it is actually the Dear Shirley example. Dear Sally typically refers to a mathematical mnemonic.
As a manager, you know how important communication skills are. It can be frustrating when your employees struggle with effective business communication.
The Dear Shirley Method to Better Writing
If you need a single example to demonstrate effective business writing, the Dear Shirley method (see image above) is an excellent illustration. Here are some reasons why the “After” is so effective:
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Uses bullets for easy scanning and digestion
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Uses plain English and avoids excessive adjectives, adverbs, and clauses
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Starts with the main statement and follows with supporting reasons
Criticism of the Dear Shirley Method
Some critics of the Dear Shirley method argue that the “After” lacks:
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Emotion
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Detail
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Accuracy
These criticisms are valid, and the “After” can be revised to address them, particularly the concern about accuracy.
Despite its flaws, the Dear Shirley method has a clear purpose: to communicate a point in less than three seconds when time is short.
If you need to convey a message quickly and clearly, the Dear Shirley method is an effective way to do it.