Writing style - things have moved on!

[Canklesofglitter]

I returned to the workplace after an eight year career break just under three years ago. I changed sector (healthcare to voluntary sector) and went back in a relatively junior role. I've just had my fifth promotion since returning and am slowly inching my way back to senior management.

I recently drafted something for a Board Exec and got the feedback that, although the content was fine, the document was too long (briefing note - two pages) and too "public sector" in style.

I think I need to change my writing style and catch up with way things are written now.

Can anyone recommend anything I can read which might help?

Well, I think it's a bit of a leap to assume that writing styles have moved on. That's not really what the feedback you've received says: just that what you provided wasn't right for this occasion. Although, frankly, describing a piece of writing as 'too public sector' is ridiculous, as it means nothing and provides no indication of how they would like things written : somebody needs to use their words a bit more.

Is there someone (a PA or coordinator maybe?) you can approach to ask for an example of a paper whose style the Board Executive liked? You could then use that as a model.

And congratulations on your obviously very successful return to the world of work.