Dialogue Explained: A Writer's Guide

Today, I'm highlighting how to use dialogue in fiction. It's one of the writer's tools to be very familiar with, because it adds depth to characters, and advances the plot. Allow dialogue to flow naturally, expose information. There must be clashing of emotions through dialogue. Mix-up dialogue with action.

I've found that observing real life conversations have helped me write better dialogue, as well as reading all kinds of books.

I'm returning to the character Brenda from G-Town in Philly. Remember, Brenda feels that there's something odd going on in her neighborhood. She's determined to find out what the whispers are about. 

Let's take a look.

Brenda tapped on Ms. Jannie's door, and faked a smile. "Ms. Jannie, hey, have you noticed anything odd lately?" 

Ms. Jannie furrowed her brows. "Odd, what do you mean Brenda?"

"The, um, rumors that there's some hidden secret in G-Town," Brenda mumbled, rolled her eyes around as if someone might over-hear. "Know anything about it?"

Ms. Jannie paused, smiled, "Like the waves of a flowing ocean, secrets flow through  lives carving impressions on them."

Brenda jumped off the porch, excited and determined to dig up the mysteries lurking on the down-low of her seemingly ordinary G-Town. The chat with Ms. Jannie confirmed her suspicions, even though she didn't understand Ms. Jannie's weird sayings.

I'll stop there with Brenda. 

It's time to explain what else is important about writing dialogue. 

It's important to use language that feels natural and reflects how people speak. A character, for example, shouldn't be too formal. Unless, it's part of the character or setting.   

Sentences are varied in length and structure within dialogue. Why? Repetition is removed while excitement beams.

Avoid at all cost using dialogue as the tool to pour too much information into a scene. Revealing is stirred slowly into a conversation. 

Finally, we come to the editing process. It's important to read aloud. Why? It pin-points awkward phrasing, words that just don't fit, or where dialogue shouldn't be used.

Unlock Success: Master Effective Communication in the Workplace

The accompanying image in my post highlights the importance of effective communication. Clearly, each block spells out "Business." Effective communication, too, must have clarity, because it's the back-bone of your success in the workplace. In my post, I discuss key tips to improve communication skills. Why? It'll promote a positive and productive work environment.

Clarity is the goal of all messages communicated for the smooth integration of the organization's mission. All messages communicated are clear and concise. Remove any unnecessary complexity to ensure everyone is on the same page. No one should be guessing about the message.

Let's take a look at how communication is, or should be, within an organization.

Subject: Company Meeting

Dear Design Team,

We hope this message finds all of you well. We're informing you of a meeting scheduled for February 20, 2024, at 9 a.m. The presence of your team is vital as we discuss important updates, initiatives, and queries.  

Location: Meeting Room

Agenda: Design Innovations

We look forward to your active participation.

Best Regards,

Marcella Glenn

Design and Creative Director

The goal is absolutely clear. Team members understand what's expected, the time, date, and place. It puts everyone on the same page, sets realistic expectations, and welcomes collaboration.

Listening well and communication goes hand-in-hand. Get into the habit of being an active listener. This involves your full attention, really concentrating on what the other person is saying. Ask clarifying questions, and show empathy to produce a connected and understanding team.  

Constructive feedback is a tool to keep in your office. The feedback you offer is done in a constructive manner. Specific behaviors are discussed, their impact, and present suggestions for improvement. It's not what you say, but how. Keep that thought in mind as specific behaviors are spoken about. The workplace's environment is where continuous growth happens. 

In conclusion, the success to master effective communication is clarity. listening well, and constructive feedback.

Share some of your own experiences or tips for effective communication.