from the desk of housestyle co.

The blog

Writing and communications guidance for organizations—whatever you call the thing you're looking for.

Why Does My Organization Need a Style Guide?

If your organization sounds like three different people wrote it, this is where to start.

What Actually Goes Into a Style Guide (Beyond Grammar)

It's more than grammar rules—here's everything that actually belongs in a working style guide.

7 Signs Your Organization Has Outgrown Its "Unwritten" Style Rules

Seven signs the informal, word-of-mouth version of your style isn't cutting it anymore.

How to Roll Out a New Style Guide Without Anyone Ignoring It

Building the guide is the easy part. Here's how to get your team to actually use it.

The Hidden Cost of Inconsistent Writing for Nonprofits and Sport Organizations

Inconsistent writing never shows up as a line item—which is exactly why it's expensive.

Style Guide, Brand Voice Guidelines, Editorial Standards: What's the Difference?

Searched for “brand voice guidelines” or “tone of voice document” instead? Start here.

Why Does Everyone on My Team Write Differently?

You've noticed it without being able to name it—here's why, and what actually fixes it.

How to Brief a Freelancer or New Hire on Your Organization's Voice

Six things an effective voice briefing covers, so the first draft actually sounds like you.

A Nonprofit's Guide to Sounding Like One Organization, Not Five Writers

Nonprofits have a specific version of this problem—donor trust, program naming, volunteer writers.