When you write for the web, it’s fair to expect that your readers will come from everywhere in the world. That’s the whole point of putting content online, after all — you open it up for everyone in the world to see.
For this reason, it’s important to take into account the international English-speaking audience when you produce your material. They could end up being your biggest supporters, after all. From structure to content to word choice, always consider how your writing will be received not just by native speakers in your country, but how well they can be understood by people who speak English in other parts of the world.
One of the most important things to watch out for is your use of localized language. It’s fair to assume that the reader will have some basic familiarity with the information, but watch your word choices. While your use of idioms, slang, jargon, colloquialisms, portmanteaus and similar specialty language work well for readers in your town or country, they could end up confusing and alienating readers who aren’t quite as hip to the local vernacular.
If using a certain word or phrase that is critical to the piece might lead to misunderstanding, then use it. Just don’t leave it in without adding clarifications, providing definitions and explaining in context.
