In remote and hybrid teams, async written updates carry your thinking when you're not there. Writing ones people actually read keeps everyone aligned. Here's how.
Lead with the point
Put the key message and any decision or ask at the top. In async, people skim — if the point is buried, it's missed. A one-line summary up front does most of the work.
Make it skimmable
Short paragraphs, bold key points, and a clear structure let busy people scan and still get the message. Walls of text get ignored; well-structured updates get read and acted on.
Make the ask explicit
Frequently asked questions
How do I write async updates people read?
Lead with the point, make it skimmable, and state any ask explicitly — who, what, by when.
Why do my async updates get missed?
Often the point is buried and the ask isn't explicit — lead with both.
How much detail should I include?
Enough to be clear and skimmable — key message up front, details below.
How can I improve my remote communication?
Book a free 30-minute class to work on it 1-on-1 with Digby R. Kerr.
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