Reviews
The Executive Writer has taught workshops for a wide variety of government agencies and corporations. Improving writing skills is our number one priority. Here’s what some of our clients have to say about the effectiveness of our courses.
Our finance team attended a full-day online writing course from The Executive Writer. But the workshop definitely did not feel like an all-day workshop—time just flew by. Kevin is a very engaging and well prepared instructor. The course was very interactive, with a lot of examples and hands-on exercises that were adapted specifically to the field of finance.
Many writing tips, such as, the importance of identifying your audience and purpose, and the concept of writing simply using plain language techniques—along with relevant examples—resonated greatly with our team members. Several real-life examples, that were almost comical, on how not to write were extremely memorable and are sure to help us remember and apply the concepts Kevin presented during the workshop. If you need to improve your writing skills, we highly recommend this workshop.
Clara Au, CSA, Biz Apps Controller & Irena Kravchenko, Stat and Tax Manager
Microsoft Canada
Thank you very much for your time and for sharing your writing wisdom with us. It’s spot on, and I’ve learned and relearned so much. I really appreciate the actual, real-life writing examples you use. It’s very relatable to the writing I do on the job. I also appreciate your emphasis on applied learning and your faith in our writing instincts. This is great teaching. I would recommend your workshop to others!
Lynn Despain, Business Analyst & Records Officer
Utah Department of Commerce
Kevin hosted an excellent Executive Writer workshop. It was noted by several of the participants that they appreciated his use of the custom, real-world examples of writing from our organization. It really drove home several points. Overall, a good learning experience, especially the tutorial on how to write effective emails that get read! I recommend the course to everyone who needs to improve their writing skills. My organization will likely use his tailored workshop(s) in the future.
Rob Bleck, IT Manager
Defense Threat Reduction Agency
I recently attended The Executive Writer’s “Master Technical Writing” workshop. I liked the concise presentation of a complicated topic. The course was not only fun and interesting, but it changed my way of thinking about writing. If you want to improve your writing, take this workshop.
Justin, Center for Devices and Radiological Health
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Kevin Ryan has been delivering in-person writing classes at the FDA since 2003. I started working with him in 2007. He was the first outside trainer I worked with, and he set the bar exceptionally high. From the start, he impressed with his subject matter expertise, collaborative spirit, and eagerness to ensure the learners get what they need. He’s a passionate teacher who comes well prepared, knows how to engage adult learners, and cares that they continue to improve their writing skills. Kevin consistently receives high ratings on evaluations from the FDA staff who take his courses, and working with him is a breeze!
Carole Manny, MPH, Public Health Training Specialist, Center for Devices and Radiological Health
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Kevin’s specifically tailored workshop was a great refresher for our experienced employees and a welcome introduction to the wonderful world of executive correspondence for our newer staff. I’ve had nothing but positive feedback from the 164 people who attended. Kevin is patient, knows what he’s talking about, and a pleasure to work with.
Charles Broshous, Director, Congressional Correspondence
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
We are seeing real improvement in the quality of writing from the people who attended your workshop. They are applying the Four-Part Harmony format, that you teach, to their correspondence with manufacturers who are submitting their biologic products for review here at CBER. The end result is clearer and more effective communication. For individuals who need an introduction to Four-Part Harmony or just plain better writing, we are steering them to the classes that you offer here at the FDA.
Scott Norris, Consumer Safety Officer, Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Kevin provided my staff with the core writing principles they need to succeed. Kevin helped us cut through old myths and poor assumptions about writing. We see drastic improvement in our team’s ability to communicate, and lower our cost of internal and external communication.
Corey Albrecht, President
CERiS
I learned some new skills. One major takeaway was learning to edit for content first. That is huge. I’m a writer and blogger. I’ve always struggled with grammar. It was great to hear Dr. Ryan say that I am not alone, in that writers/authors are not their own best editors.
Tamaria M. Allen, MBA, PMP, Section Chief
U.S. Census Bureau
Thank you for sharing your expertise at the Regulatory Writing workshop that you taught for us. It was well received by all the participants, and the feedback was uniformly positive. In our wrap up session, everyone shared what they learned and it was clear that your point about editing by deleting words and your instruction on active versus passive voice were especially helpful and easy to remember and apply. We feel your workshop will improve the writing we do here at GE Healthcare.
Daniel Biank, Risk Manager
GE Healthcare
Thanks so much. I am already a more confident writer because of your workshop. I now have an enhanced (shiny!) set of writing tools to help improve my writing.
Stephen Clawson, PMP, Mathematical Statistician
U.S. Census Bureau
The Executive Writer workshop provided tips on writing and proofreading that writers of all skill levels, beginners to advanced, will find invaluable. The workshop was customized to meet the time pressures and special needs of our team. Kevin did an excellent job of selecting the information he needed to communicate in person and providing online and other resources that we could use on our own. The course was very user friendly. Kevin moved through the material at a comfortable pace using a good mix of instruction and hands-on, interactive exercises. An enthusiastic and entertaining speaker, Kevin boosted our confidence as writers and actually made writing fun.
Kay Watanabe, Senior Manager, Marketing, Internet Business Solutions Group
Cisco Systems
I thoroughly enjoyed The Executive Writer workshop. The instructor is clearly an expert in his field and presented helpful tips and advice in straightforward, easy-to-understand language. The class improved my confidence and took the fear out of writing for me. I learned the connection between writing and problem solving, and that even the professionals don’t have all the answers. Most important of all, I learned how to get my message across to my reader clearly and concisely. I am interested in attending another workshop.
Stephen Fife, Operations Manager
American Express
I highly recommend taking The Executive Writer workshop. I found the principles easy to follow and understand. One of the first techniques I learned was how to remove unnecessary words from my documents. After the workshop, I began applying this skill to all of my correspondence including simple emails. I saw immediate improvement in my ability to write clearly and concisely just based on this one tip. My writing has certainly improved because of this class.
Michele D. Hudson, Deputy Director, Office of Information Technology, CDRH
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
In just one day, The Executive Writer Workshop provided me with the essential tools to improve my business writing skills. The instructor’s presentation is very clear and the key concepts are emphasized throughout the lecture so they are easy to remember and apply long after the workshop ends. The course includes a variety of interactive exercises that reinforce the main ideas. In addition, the exercises are interesting and even fun, which makes the course go by quickly. I was never bored. I highly recommend The Executive Writer Workshop to my colleagues and anyone who is interested in discovering an easy, less stressful approach to writing on the job.
Yihua Zhao, Mathematical Statistician
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
What intrigued us about The Executive Writer seminar was its very practical, non-mechanical approach. Our team ranges from employees with no formal writing experience to professional writers. The traditional method of learning how to use nouns, verbs, and objects just wouldn’t work for us. What we did learn in our half-day, hands-on seminar was how to organize our thoughts, focus on what’s important, and recognize good writing. Everyone came away with increased confidence that they can write everything from emails to white papers more effectively. Even those with extensive experience are writing more succinctly. I only wish we had scheduled at least a full day for the seminar.
Michael Astle, Publications Manager, Internet Business Solutions Group
Cisco Systems
Taking The Executive Writer writing and proofreading courses back to back was a refreshing experience that provided valuable tips, which made all of us better writers and proofreaders. To tell the truth, I thought that two days of ‘English classes’ might be boring; they were anything but. Kevin Ryan kept everyone engaged with interactive discussions, and exercises that tested our knowledge and taught us new information at the same time. Best of all, we could immediately apply what we learned on our very next on-the-job writing assignments. The information was practical, and the learning environment was fun and challenging. I recommend The Executive Writer courses for anyone who must write at work.
Barbara Young, Training Coordinator, CDRH Office of Compliance
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
After 35 years of various writing courses I have to admit that your approach is the best way to learn how to write and proofread. You are an excellent instructor, much better than the nuns I had in middle school. Good luck!
Chester Reynolds, Public Health Advisor
After 35 years of various writing courses I have to admit that your approach is the best way to learn how to write and proofread. You are an excellent instructor, much better than the nuns I had in middle school. Good luck!
Chester Reynolds, Public Health Advisor
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Thank you for presenting your workshop at our annual Leadership Academy training curriculum. I especially liked the way you used details to clarify main points; gave very clear, easy-to-understand answers; and showed a sincere understanding of the writing problems we developed over the years. You listened and gave us time to express our thoughts and concerns. I hope that The Executive Writer workshop becomes a regular part of all future staff training.
Lou Della Elliott, Manager, West Farms Branch
The New York Public Library
The Executive Writer workshop taught me a number of valuable writing concepts, such as writer’s intuition, the method of crossing out unnecessary information as a first edit, the difference between an Art and a Science Edit, the value of a ‘seriously imperfect’ first draft, and how writing concisely solves many other writing problems. Most of all the workshop reassured me that anyone can be a good writer. I would recommend your one-day course to any businessperson who wants to quickly learn how to write clearly and concisely.
Amy Carr, Supervising Librarian for Community Information Service
The New York Public Library
The Executive Writer workshop was customized to the type of writing we do each day at the United Way of Salt Lake, and instilled confidence in everyone who attended. It reinforced that less is more and underscored the important differences between editing and proofreading. We all enjoyed Kevin Ryan’s teaching style and the fact that he provided very helpful online resources that can be quickly and easily accessed. Thanks again for sharing your talent with our staff.
Rebecca J. Dutson, Vice President, Resource Development
United Way of Salt Lake
Dr. Ryan provided several quality ‘hands-on’ exercises and techniques that stimulated thought and creativity which in turn enhanced everyone’s ability to plan and draft effective case studies. He also provided tips that professionals can use to write clearly and concisely. He did an excellent job facilitating the entire evening. We enjoyed ourselves and had a wonderful learning experience. Thank you Kevin!
Jim B. Golden, Communication Coordinator
Metro DC Association for Talent Development (ATD)
The Executive Writer workshop is excellent. Kevin was interested in us, our jobs, and our on-the-job writing issues. He covered everything we wanted to learn, and I came away with many helpful tips that I could immediately use myself and ‘inflict’ on my staff (particularly about emails). Kevin convinced us that we are better writers than we think we are and showed us how to write with confidence.
In addition, he analyzed our writing samples after the class was over and gave us one-on-one feedback—fantastic! I’ve taken many classes and never had any follow-up initiated by the instructor. Additional post-workshop benefits include: a helpful, entertaining, and professional-looking monthly newsletter and, perhaps most noteworthy, Kevin makes himself available by email to answer any writing questions we have and is very timely in responding.
Dr. Susie Homire, Director, Medical Device Fellowship Program, CDRH
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
When I couldn’t find an in-house writing course for my group, I contacted The Executive Writer. I’m glad I did. The ‘Plan, Write and Proofread Twice’ workshop conducted by Kevin Ryan was just what I was looking for. Kevin was genuinely concerned about my team’s writing issues and customized the course to meet the needs of the diverse group of people who attended. Kevin made us feel comfortable and confident in our writing abilities. In the few short days since the workshop, I have noticed that the participants are applying Kevin’s techniques to their writing projects—and it’s working. Their writing is improving. Kevin is a dynamic presenter who knows his material and is very easy to work with. Thank you very much for helping us to become better writers.
Bonnie Blackson, Manager, Client Service
American Express
You know you have been successful when someone tells you they were dubious about attending a writing skills workshop but felt obligated to do so, and then afterwards were able to say, hand on heart, that the session was stimulating and thought-provoking.
I offer this as a testimonial from one of my more assertive colleagues; and I did get other very positive comments and feedback from other participants. Thanks so much for making the session come to life and getting people to think about how they express themselves in the written form. Also, thanks very much for being an asset to our annual Communications and Public Affairs Development Training Program.
You know you have been successful when someone tells you they were dubious about attending a writing skills workshop but felt obligated to do so, and then afterwards were able to say, hand on heart, that the session was stimulating and thought-provoking.
Shelagh Lester-Smith, Vice President, Director of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs
Motorola
Thank you for the personal feedback on my writing style and the many useful tips you presented in The Executive Writer workshop. Writing is a key skill I use every day at work. Your course taught me how to write short, simple sentences that get my point across quickly, which saves me time and trouble on everything I write. Though I always dread workshop exercises, the ones you had us do were realistic, hands-on learning tools that improved the quality of my writing. I was never bored and you did an excellent job keeping everyone involved and interested. I wish all workshops were as interesting and practical—and improved my productivity.
Janice Tillman, Manager of Administrative Services
Energy Northwest
The Executive Writer taught our consultants a new way to write ‘without rules.’ The innovative approach made the writing process less complex and increased everyone’s confidence. In addition, the instructor’s wit and humor made a difficult subject interesting. But most important of all, The Executive Writer method improved the writing skills of the entire group in a single workshop.
Jamie Claflin, President
J’Caz Consulting
I’ve taken business-writing seminars before, and they didn’t teach me anything new. They were basically grammar reviews. The Executive Writer tutorial presented a different approach to writing that was practical and easy-to-understand. Best of all, I saw immediate improvement in my writing skills.
Holly Olson, Channel Manager
Novell
Writing was always a difficult and frustrating chore for me, but now that’s changed. The Executive Writer taught me the simple, intuitive method professional writers use, which made the writing process easier and less intimidating. I left the tutorial with confidence in my writing ability and new tools to help me write quickly, clearly and to the point. The Executive Writer tutorial is one of the most effective workshops I’ve attended.
Cindi Remley, Senior Manager
Lucent Technologies
I’ve attended several informative grant writing classes, but Kevin’s workshop gave me tips and examples that I will be able to use immediately. I took away ideas that will tighten up my writing as well as give it more warmth and depth.
Anne Chapman, Community Impact Manager
United Way of Salt Lake
The Executive Writer taught me how to write without rules, which helped me to focus on my message, write faster at work, and improve my confidence. As an added bonus, I improved my critical-thinking and problem-solving skills too. Everyone who writes on the job should take this workshop.
Steve Hegerhorst, Account Manager
Prometric
The Executive Writer workshop showed me several easy ways to write concisely and proofread more thoroughly. I was able to apply Kevin Ryan’s tips and advice immediately after the workshop on my emails, memos and other business writing assignments. Kevin is an inspirational speaker who presented a uniquely different and easy-to-understand approach that anyone can use to become a better writer. This was an excellent workshop, and I’m looking forward to attending another one.
Rosie Robillard, Technical Support Specialist
Energy Northwest
The Executive Writer course gave us refreshing new ideas that we are already implementing to improve both our information gathering and writing. The class was engaging, interactive, and full of energy. We walked away with all the tools we needed to take our written documents to a higher level.
Kalani Cropper, Advertising Manager
Altiris
The Executive Writer workshop clearly outlined the do’s and dont’s of business writing and taught me an easy way to edit my own work so I catch even small mistakes that most people typically miss. I also learned how to write more concisely, which makes it easy now to communicate a clear message to my colleagues and customers. As an added bonus, I spend less time writing on the job.
Linda Krantz, Manager
American Express
The Executive Writer tutorial teaches a fresh, new approach to improving writing skills. I learned how to focus and clarify my writing, and how to implement what I learned immediately. If you do any type of on-the-job writing, this tutorial is a must.
Dannette Klein, Program Manager
Novell
Your keynote to the Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce was a welcome reminder of the power of the written word. Your insightful tips on how to write and think clearly and concisely were presented in an easy-to-understand, entertaining style. The comments I received from members afterward made it clear your presentation provided timely, helpful information for the business community.
Heidi Ballif, Vice President
Salt Lake Chamber of Commerce
I really enjoyed The Executive Writer presentation. It was my favorite session of the conference. I am in the process of writing a business plan, and the basic message of your presentation has been extremely helpful. Again, thanks very much.
Jennifer Taylor, Freelance Project Manager
The Executive Writer course taught me many helpful concepts that I applied immediately to my writing projects. For example, I have reduced the length of my inter-office emails while making them more easily understood. I also reduced the time it takes to write, re-write and edit my reports. Following Kevin’s advice, I asked a co-worker to trade proofreading tasks for documents that go outside the department so we can be sure to catch any errors. Just these three steps alone have helped to make the writing process easier and everything I write more clear and concise.
Martin Gilley, Nuclear Safety Issues Program Lead
Energy Northwest
In just a few hours, The Executive Writer was able to outline an efficient and detailed approach to success-story writing. The tactics explained in this course simplify the writing process and provide clear, concise and effective results. The Executive Writer gives a professional and interactive presentation that shows how to break the rules in order to write well.
Rhett Glauser, PR Manager
Altiris
Just a short note to say thanks for the writing instruction. I write an article each month for a trade publication and use your tips to save myself a lot of time and produce a better product. Today I began writing an article that seemed a daunting task. However, I remembered your tip to just write and edit later. This one tip has saved me time and again, including today. Thanks for your expert advice—very helpful!
John Hickey, Marketing Director
Q Comm International
My job requires a lot of writing which I often found difficult. But The Executive Writer tutorial taught me how professional writers write—a method I wish they taught in school—and significantly improved my writing skills and confidence after a single workshop. I recommend The Executive Writer to any business person who wants to save time and headaches on every project they write.
Alexia Henrie, Manager
Novell
“I think anyone, experienced writer or not, would benefit from this course.”
“Writing almost seems so simple, and anyone can benefit with the tools presented.”
“It emphasizes the obvious that with a little work anyone can write effectively.”
“Terrific message and terrific messenger.”
“Fast-paced, practical, and presented knowledge I can really use.”
“Easy-to-understand, interactive.”
“Great ideas. Great presentation. Great examples.”
“Practical information that helps immediately.”
“This course builds confidence.”
“Good, practical, reasonable tips.”
“Presented a common-sense approach to writing and debunked the old rules that often stop my creative process.”
“The course put the ambivalent world of writing into understandable terms and made the point clear that there is really no one right way. It made writing look fun.”
Comments from evaluation forms for the United Way Salt Lake workshop
“I appreciated your fresh approach to writing and language. Common sense in a world in need of it.”
“Simple concepts that make sense.”
“Thanks for the insight and knowledge on business writing. Writing won’t be so difficult in the future.”
“Thank you for the insight on writing. I’m not so bad after all.”
“Cuts through the crap!”
“Great concepts that helped me to be more confident in my writing.”