Making it Clear: Clear Language for Union Communications

WORDS TO USE AND WORDS TO AVOID

Avoid jargon

technical, legal or other job-related words or phrases may make material hard to understand
if some technical terms are necessary, define them and include examples

Before

After

With respect to the processing, disposition and/or settlement of any grievance initiated under the Grievance Procedure Section of this Agreement, and with respect to any court action claiming or alleging a violation of this Agreement or any local or other agreement amendatory or supplemental hereto, the Union shall be the sole and exclusive representative of the employee or employees covered by this agreement.

The Union is your bargaining and grievance representative in all areas covered by the contract.

Avoid acronyms and abbreviations

abbreviations, initials or short forms can be confusing
if you must use short forms, write them out in full and explain them the first time you use them

Before	After
The CLC is holding an EI workshop on Tues., Sept. 19.	The Canadian Labour Congress is holding a workshop about Employment Insurance on Tuesday, September 19.
i.e.	that is
e.g.	for example