To say that this year has been challenging is an understatement. Whether you have been personally affected or not by the events or issues that are constantly displayed on the news, chances are, someone in your network has. As many cancer patients and survivors know too well, you can never truly know what experiences someone might be having behind closed doors. For this reason, it is now more important than ever that we make a conscious effort to be kind and sincere, not just in our personal relationships, but in our professional ones.
With social distancing guidelines and the rise of remote work, we are sending more and more emails than ever. While communicating via email may be nothing new for many people, the global and national landscape has changed significantly. As writer Rosamond S. King says in a recent Business Insider article, “nothing is — or should be — normal right now.” While emails should remain professional, and boundaries should remain in check, we should try to be more conscientious of how they will be received. Here we highlight 3 of King's multiple valuable suggestions on how to write a more sensitive, but still work-appropriate email:
- Rethink your openings and closings. It does not take a lot. With just a few added words the tone of your email can convey warmth and support, at a time where it may be most needed.
- Be brief, to the point, and positive. More is not always more. You do not want to be too overwhelming, just a few kind words are all you need.
- End the way you began. A short but warm sign off will do the trick!
Please be sure to read Rosamond S. King’s complete article on Business Insider by clicking here.
For additional tips, consult the At Work and Looking for Work sections of our website. And be sure to check out our free tools, webinars and publications.