Stick to the formalities
Formal emails are less personal and are used for professional and academic purposes, where use of colloquialisms, contractions or slang is strictly avoided. These emails function as an effective means of communication and they have to be concise, precise and positive. It totally depends on the sender and the recipient to convey and understand the matter. At times, the recipient might get upset or offended as he/she cannot read the writer’s tone or expressions. Therefore, it is left to interpretation. Though devoid of personal touch, formal emails serve professionals in a better manner.
From Ms Jayashree Kulkarni
Abu Dhabi
Interpersonal skills
Even in work emails, a bit of light-hearted humour can go a long way. Whether you are keeping it civil with your colleagues or conveying your interpersonal skills to customers. That being said, we can’t be too informal. Even if you are comfortable with someone, doesn’t mean you should let spelling mistakes slip in.
From Mr Jonathon Mathews
Dubai
Ensures respect
The main reason is that email is a terrible vehicle for good communication. Emails can be easily misinterpreted, because most people cannot easily convey emotion or the lack thereof, with the written word. Another reason is that email etiquette sets expectations for the reader – good or bad. This is very important, because email is a monologue with delayed time for correction. Think about this: You send a poorly worded email to your boss. Some hours or days later, you re-read your email and discover that you made a mistake. Fixing that mistake could take a long time, depending on how bad the mistake was. I feel that formal email etiquette ensures respect for all.
From Ms Megna Rajagopal
UAE
Preserve English
I agree with Ms Megna Rajagopal that emails need to be properly read over before being sent to one’s boss. We can’t let our ease of communication affect workflow. Young people these days take an informal attitude towards email writing too far. Is it because, on social media platforms, they are used to destroying the English language?
From Ms Divya
UAE
Editor’s note: Is there a debate topic that you feel strongly about? Something that you would like to see addressed in the community? Email us on readers@gulfnews.com. You can also post a comment on our Facebook page or tweet to us @GNReaders.
