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My manager told me my emails sounded too bossy and it made me rethink everything
I work in a small office in Austin, about 10 people total. I thought I was being direct and clear in my emails, especially when delegating tasks. Last month my manager pulled me aside and said my tone came off as demanding and cold. She gave me a specific example where I wrote "Send me the report by 3pm" instead of asking when they could have it ready. I started adding more polite phrases like "if you get a chance" or asking for their input first. It felt weird at first but people seem to respond way better now. Has anyone else gotten feedback on how they communicate that changed how you talk to coworkers?
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sanchez.mary5d ago
Oh man, that reminds me of when I worked at this call center. We had a supervisor who literally made us script our goodbye phrases. Mine was "have a blessed day" and I hated it so much I started saying it sarcastically to my coworkers. One time I said it to a guy who just lost his job and he nearly cried. So yeah, communication is tricky.
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juliahall3d ago
Good point Colemanseth, sometimes directness just comes off as bossy without softeners.
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