The best way to close an interview for a story is to admit that no matter how prepared you are, you can’t possibly think of all the right questions to ask. Here’s how to do that to get better responses.

When it comes to writing and marketing communications, It’s easy to keep chasing after the thrill of the new. Don’t let that get in the way of telling a good story.

To write quickly and clearly, it’s helpful to think like a reporter. One way to do that is to write “What strikes me?” and spend a few minutes absorbing the details and points you want to make. Read on for more tips.

Elmore Leonard’s 10 Rules for Writers can be applied to many types of writing, not just the hard-boiled crime novels for which Leonard was famous. Your writing will be easier to read if you follow his advice.

If you want to be a better writer, put down your pen (or shut down your computer) and pick up a paint brush or other tool that allows you to be creative in a hands-on way.

A friend sent me a message asking “is AP style still relevant in corporate communications?” “Of course!” roared this former AP reporter. But WHY? For one thing, following AP’s well-accepted guidelines will help make your writing clear, concise and credible.

During a webinar for the Public Relations Society of America’s Hampton Roads chapter, Nealy Gihan of Purple Inked and I discussed issues such as writing too long, using meaningless quotes, not using storytelling — and more.

if you want to be clear in your communications, simplicity is best. Emulate Ernest Hemingway and cut out that scrollwork. To make your message stand out: use plain words, eliminate jargon, write in short sentences, use active voice, avoid adverbs and organize with bullet points.