Website editorial guide · Prepared for this website
Say what needs to happen
A useful message explains the task, its purpose and the expected next step. Where a deadline matters, state it clearly. Avoid assuming that the recipient has the same context as the sender.
Separate information from decisions
A team benefits from knowing whether a message is an update, a request for input or a decision to act on. Naming that purpose can reduce unnecessary back-and-forth.
Confirm shared understanding
For important handovers, ask the receiving person to summarise the next action. This can reveal a different interpretation while there is still time to clarify it.
Keep the record accessible
Decisions should be recorded where the people doing the work can find them. A concise shared note can be more useful than a long conversation that cannot be retrieved when needed.