Employee memorandum template – A business memo is a document used to communicate an idea or project to a group. 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. It can be used to communicate important information to the entire team, or just to the person who needs to know. You can use business memos to describe a business plan, introduce a new product, share an idea, or announce a change of direction.
Business messages are usually informational. They should be written with a clear opening that explains the message’s main point and purpose. Front-loading is a term used to describe this. 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.
The memorandum can also be used in business writing to answer routine questions. 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. Don’t be shy; be direct. Since this request is not meant to be terribly controversial or persuasive, the expectation is that reader will be receptive to the request. The memo’s body provides context details and closes with a deadline for the request. If necessary, it asks for further follow-up.
Your memo should be concise, clear and to-the-point. 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. It is important to keep in mind the target audience. Key questions such as why the memo is being written, what needs to be conveyed and what is the expected outcome must be constantly kept in mind. These questions must be answered before, during, and after the memo is written. Use sparse words. Use simple language. Use the active voice. Use active verbs. The reader wants to read the document and move on to what needs to be done. Make sure you use the correct titles, such as Mrs., Mr., or Ms.
A well-written memo does not have to be complex. It serves its purpose by being simple and straight to the point. Interestingly enough, the memo concept has its hidden benefits such as those of keeping the writer off the phone and preventing him or her from getting off the point of the intended message. This strategy saves time and allows everyone to be more productive.