Inconsistent Writing & Mixed Messaging: Fixing Bad Writing Habits

Prepare to explore the cost and consequences of the content world’s darker side – where the Seven Deadly Sins converge with the challenges of enterprise content management.

This is the first guide in our “7 Deadly Content Sins” series, where we look at common content challenges and how to avoid them – with the help of Acrolinx. 

Sending your target audience mixed messages through inconsistent content leads to editorial inefficiency, missed deadlines and budget strain, and a jarring customer experience. 

In this guide learn how to: 

• Refine your approval workflows for maximum efficiency.
• Keep all your content contributors aligned to your brand standards.
• Explore how Acrolinx can help you address the inconsistent content and mixed messaging across all of your enterprise content. 

How does inconsistent content lead to mixed messaging?

Inconsistent content can lead to mixed messaging by creating confusion, eroding trust, and diluting a brand’s identity. Here’s how it happens:

1. Contradictory information: If different pieces of content convey conflicting details (e.g., one article says a product is for enterprises while another targets small businesses), the audience won’t know what to believe.
2. Varied tone and style: Inconsistent voice, language, or formatting across platforms can make the brand feel disjointed, making it harder for audiences to connect and recognize the message.
3. Unclear brand positioning: If messaging varies across content types (social media, website, email campaigns), potential customers may struggle to understand the brand’s core values and offerings.
4. Misaligned audience targeting: Content that speaks to different audiences without clear segmentation can lead to misunderstandings about who the brand serves.
5. Loss of credibility: A brand that appears inconsistent may seem unreliable or untrustworthy, leading customers to seek alternatives with clearer messaging.

What are some common bad writing habits that need to be eliminated?

To avoid mixed messaging, eliminate bad writing habits like inconsistent terminology, shifting tone and voice, and excessive jargon that confuses readers. Avoid fluff and wordiness, as they dilute clarity, and always fact-check to prevent contradictions. Weak or inconsistent calls-to-action (CTAs) can create uncertainty, so keep them clear and standardized. Ignoring brand guidelines leads to inconsistencies in formatting and phrasing, while neglecting audience expectations results in misaligned messaging. Tools like Acrolinx help maintain consistency by enforcing brand standards across all content.

Make sure to keep an eye for the next guide in our content sins series. Next up we’ll be tackling old and outdated content that’s lurking in your content repositories and website!