Trait #3 - Voice

The writer speaks directly to the reader in a way that is individualistic, expressive, and engaging. Clearly the writer is involved in the text and is writing to be read.
The paper is honest, written from the heart, and has the ring of conviction.
The language is natural, yet provocative; it brings the topic to life.
The reader feels a strong sense of interaction with the writer and senses the person behind the words.
The projected tone and voice give flavor to the writer's message and seem to be appropriate for the purpose and audience.

The writer seems sincere, but not genuinely engaged, committed, or involved. The result is pleasant, but short of compelling.
The writer communicates in an earnest, pleasing manner.
Voice may emerge strongly on occasion, then retreat behind general, vague, tentative, or abstract language.
The writing hides as much of the writer as it reveals.
The writer seems aware of an audience but seems to be distant and avoids risks.

The writer seems indifferent, uninvolved, or distanced from the topic and/or audience. As a result, the writing is flat, lifeless, or mechanical. May be overly technical or jargonistic and relies heavily on clichés or buzzwords.
The reader has a hard time sensing the writer behind the words. The writer does not interact with the intended audience and does not connect with the audience.
The writer speaks in a monotone that tends to flatten all potential highs and lows of the message.
The writing communicates on a functional level, with no apparent attempt to engage the reader either in structure, language, or design.
The writer does not seem to be sufficiently engaged in his/her own work. He or she is only writing words instead of communicating.