Acronyms and Abbreviations - Our Best Work?

In a society rich in acronyms and abbreviations that are considered the norm and correct grammar is an anomaly, I’m wondering if we sometimes take advantage of our “expertise” and leave others scratching their head and saying “Huh?“

Taking a step beyond Active Rain and delve into social media and you'll certainly understand what I’m talking about. Join the micro-blogging network, Twitter, and you’re bound to expel any thought into 140 characters or less.

Another step is DM (direct message) or IM (instant message) – depending on the platform. Instant communication with someone to whom you are connected. Typically permission based, but not always – allowing you to bypass the email delays.

Speaking of email, have you noticed that these days it’s very typical to receive a note with only a subject line? I received an email earlier today from a class I intended that merely said “Thanks for attending (the class name)” Seems to me that an opportunity to market additional classes was completely missed by not including some kind of text in the body of the email. Thanks?! That’s it – my thought was “Don’t you want to sign up for the next class? How about a referral? How about a recognizable email address that can easily be identified?

I wonder how many opportunities to connect with potential clients or other industry professionals I have missed in my haste to just get things done?

While it may take an extra minute to type the entire word or sentence, certainly the connection that it makes with the reader is worth it? What if it lead to a referral or a lifet-time friendship?

If I could guarantee that everyone who reads my work is blessed with the knowledge to interpret every acronym or abbreviation then, and only then, would I give myself permission to limit my writings, but until then, I am committed to writing out my posts & emails in complete sentences.

Now – follow me Twitter and that’s another story.