Perception

Perception and Interpretation
How you compose and present a piece of written information has a significant impact on how it is interpreted by the reader.

We will consider:

• Writing a business letter

• Writing an effective report

• Writing a business email

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When we receive a piece of written communication our perception of the way in which it is presented and language used effects our interpretation of its contents.
 
A letter on fine white letter headed paper starting 'Dear Sir' or 'Dear Madam', is likely to be interpreted as a more formal message than one received on coloured paper and starting 'Dear Jim' or 'Dear Ruth'.

A letter from your bank manager which starting: 'Dear Sir, Re: Your overdraft limit.' might make you first think you're in trouble, even though the letter goes on to tell you, that as a valued customer, your overdraft limit has been extended!