Writer perception of reader preference

The lower echelons of management were surveyed to discover if they perceive that their reading preferences are the same as those of upper-level management. Eighty-two employees of high-tech companies were surveyed. Of those surveyed, 35% were engineers. Other job definitions represented were marketing, sales, accounting, and customer service. The differences and the similarities are detailed with comments from the employees surveyed. It is concluded that employees do not agree on what is clear and concise writing. Even if they agree on which letters are more understandable and faster to read, 50% prefer to read another style. Employees are more aware of their bosses´ reading preferences than their CEO´s reading preferences. As communication flows to higher levels of management, the employee writes longer sentences, bigger words, and uses passive voice in order to appear formal, respectful, and more educated. These choices lead to a more difficult reading experience. Perhaps the lower-level manager cannot identify as easily with the CEO and is overwhelmed with the need to impress.<>