Examples of Voice and Tone

Example one

Instead of:

"The WA Museum is pleased to announce that our new exhibition The History of Australian Mateship will open at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre this September."

We could say:

"G’day cobber! Our new exhibition The History of Australian Mateship opens September at PCEC."

Explanation

  • Remember for digital our voice is human! We work for the Museum, we do not have to speak as the Museum.
  • For this announcement we have chosen our tone to be social and a bit dynamic. This means:
    • We can use language that is familiar. PCEC is the way many people refer to Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre—even them.
    • The colloquial language is sociable, and shares the messaging of the exhibition in a dynamic way.

 

Example two

Instead of:

"Due to ongoing and planned conservation work, the shipwreck display of the Batavia is currently unavailable for public tours."

We could say:

"Did you know the Batavia spent over 300 years underwater before being recovered? To make sure everything is still shipshape we are currently doing some conservation work. The Batavia will be back on display soon."

Explanation

  • Most humans do not talk in such a sterile way. That is why we try not to use templates, as people can generally tell.
  • For this example we have chosen our tone to be inquisitive and social. This means:
    • We use this notice as an opportunity to share amazing research and facts.
    • There is nothing wrong with using a bit of humour if it is appropriate. It makes the announcement more personable.