Eight years ago I was tasked with writing blog posts for a tech event with little writing experience under my belt, so I was given an editor. Nothing changed my writing style more than she, who pointed out all the ways (she asserted) women hedge and weaken their language to minimize the impact of their words. It’s a learned response, she told me, to not appear aggressive or unagreeable.
I still flinch every time I use the word “just,” even if it just makes sense.
What do you think?
I heard that we do. Using the word “just” is a good example. I pretend I’m a mediocre white dude while corresponding, and it seems to take care of it for the most part. 😉 It’s crazy what habits we’ve unconsciously picked up…
You too? It’s weird how my writing changes when it’s from the perspective of a male character. Never thought of applying that to my regular communication. I should.
Boldly misstate facts! Misinterpret communications in your favor! Pretend someone didn’t give you information! It’s fun 😊