Let’s start with Active, and have a look at active versus passive language.

“I look forward to seeing you at 6” versus “I hope to see you at 6”

The first sentence is more active and emotive and still concise. The second sentence is concise but cooler and not as active. Small nuances but think how they make the recipient feel.

The emotive component is all about feeling. Not the gushy type of lovey, dovey stuff but the human connection we all want. News media cater to people’s emotions through visuals as well as words. The purpose of the classic television close-up of a person’s face, whether they are upset, angry or happy, is to draw you into what they are feeling. This is the way we connect.

Adding the ACE technique to your daily discussions, emails or even blunt little text messages will set you apart and subtly create stronger connections with people. The commonly used LOL is perfect example of active, concise and emotive. Even better to add the A for ALOL — actually laughing out loud. Or, the one that tends to be used on Twitter, LMAO, laughing my ass off. While texting is all about ease and speed, somehow it just doesn’t feel good to get a “K” reply for okay. Am I not even worth a two-letter response? OK.

Repackaging your words to add life and meaning to even the simplest everyday communications starts to position you as a compelling communicator. It takes a bit of work and conscious thought but before you know it, it will come naturally.

For people who are doing resumes or writing cover letters for jobs, the use of ACE is paramount to standing out. The University of Kent in England has a great list of action words for job applications and a slot machine game that only lets you win when you get three active action words in a row. Check it out for any form of communicating.

Any other good examples of the use of ACE greatly appreciated.

Next week we will cover off the use of “absolutes” in the Always, Never Ever post.