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There are downsides to email communication. It eliminates tone of voice and body language that help us interpret meaning. Try these to enhance clarity.
Sorry to bother you. No, you aren’t. Try, “Thank you for your patience.” By saying this, you accept personal responsibility for whatever follows.
Whatever you think. This phrase shuts people down. Try, “I am open to exploring this further. Let’s talk more.”
Please advise. I am guilty – thinking of this as a quick way to indicate action. Now I see how pushy it seems. Try, “How would you like to proceed?”
Do you know of others?
– Sydney Ayers, SLJ 100 Communications