Department of the navy memorandum template – A business memo is a document that is used to communicate a business idea or project to a group of people. A memo is an effective communication tool in modern times. This is a great way of capturing information that might otherwise go unnoticed in an email. You can use it to communicate important information to your entire team or to just the person you need. Business memos can be used to explain a business plan, describe a new product, announce a change in direction, or just simply to share an idea.
Most business messages are informational and written with a clear and direct opening explaining the main purpose and point of the messages. This is called front-loading. The middle paragraphs or sentences, give more concrete details, developing the message, and finally, the close winds the message down, ends on a note of goodwill and requests any follow-up.
In business writing, the memorandum is also used for routine requests. These memorandums are formatted with the direct question in the opening of the memo. That can be uncomfortable to those who prefer to beat around the bush in the opening and are unaccustomed to asking for anything directly up front. Be direct and don’t be shy. Since this request is not meant to be terribly controversial or persuasive, the expectation is that reader will be receptive to the request. The body of the memo, then, develops some contextual details, and the close winds down, often giving an end date for the request to be met and asks for additional follow-up if necessary.
The memo needs be brief, to the point and clear. The general rule is one idea or issue per memo. It is better to have a meeting or discussion if there are many ideas or issues that need to be communicated. The target audience must be kept in sight. It is important to keep in mind key questions like why the memo is being created, what information needs to be communicated, and what the outcome is. This must be done before writing the memo, while it is being written and after it is completed. Use sparse words. Use simple language. Use active voice. Use active verbs. The reader wants to understand the content and then move on to the next step. Use the correct titles before the name such as Mr., Mrs., Ms., and so on.
Review the memo for clarity, conciseness, and accuracy after you have completed it. It is worth reading and examining how it sounds. Make sure to verify details like the date and the address. These details are crucial for ensuring the message is sent to the right target audience quickly and accurately. It makes document control much easier. Do not overlook the importance of correct spelling and grammar.