Writing for Government
This workshop has been designed specifically for individuals writing within, to, or on behalf of the New Zealand government.
A plain language approach to writing for government
If you’re writing to ministers and other officials, you’ll know that your readers are typically busy and time-poor.
Efficiency is essential. You give information that your readers need to digest quickly so they can stay on top of critical issues and decisions in a fast-paced environment. And you’re often asked to write briefings and other papers at short notice with shifting parameters. This workshop will help you efficiently plan and create the right content for the job.
Skills you’ll gain on the day
You’ll focus on producing clear, effective, and ‘human-centric’ writing so that readers can quickly grasp the meaning of your message and act on it with certainty.
The techniques you’ll learn for writing for government will make it easier for you to:
- step into your readers’ shoes
- understand the unique purpose of your documents
- use a five-step writing process for efficiency
- use ‘context-trigger-question’ for focus and structure
- write short, focused paragraphs and sentences
- strike the right tone.
Bring a document to work on
Looking at your own writing during the workshop will reinforce what you’ve learned and highlight areas to work on.
You could bring:
- briefing papers
- A3 reports
- aide memoires
- policy advice papers
- cabinet papers
- answers to written Parliamentary questions
- ministerial letters.
You can blank out any confidential information in the document.
Who this training is for
This workshop is for anyone writing information or advice to guide decision-makers and Ministers in government.
You’ll also benefit from the workshop if you:
- write to the standard under the Plain Language Act
- write for a public audience
- write on behalf of your Minister
- are in a role that requires you to write reports, updates, letters, emails, and other government documents.
What our clients say
I’ve worked in communications for over 20 years and this is the best course I’ve been on. It’s packed with simple and effective techniques that sharpen writing skills, save time, and produce much better communications. 10/10 from me!
Kerry S, Ministry for Women
The workshop provided some great tips and tricks, with some good real-world examples of what to do and what to avoid. A great trainer and a very useful session./p>
Debbie F, Department of Conservation
Very focused on simplifying the writing process and vastly improving how well we convey information in a compelling style.
Kyle B, The Treasury
I found the workshop, well organized, structured, and collaborative, and all of the resources and tools were clearly explained.
Toni D, Department of Internal Affairs
If you are based in New Zealand, please book through our New Zealand Writing for Government page.
Book a workshop in your time zone
Contact Julia Bennett to discuss your training needs.
[email protected]