3 things aspiring writers must know

This week, I am speaking to a college class. A friend who teaches business communication wants a “real, live” writer to speak to make the point that writing well is important. I will also be Exhibit A that someone can indeed make a living with her words and her wits.

It’s been a while since I taught (which I really enjoy), but not that long since I’ve worked with young people and colleagues on developing their writing skills.

Still, I’m a worried about holding the class’s attention, especially because it doesn’t start until 8:15 p.m.

Will they be awake? Will I put them (or myself) to sleep?

Here’s the gist of my remarks. Let me know what you think. Fellow writers and educators, am I on or off the mark? Is there anything big I’ve omitted?

Here goes:

I’m here in your classroom—instead of watching “How I Met Your Mother”—because there are three points I want to convey about writing and the world of work.

Writing can be fun. You can be creative. Though you might not think a memo can be creative, a well-crafted memo that is clear, uses relevant examples, and leads the reader to the point you want to make is creative writing.