Navigating the minefield of workplace email communication just got easier, as career experts identify the most cringeworthy phrases that could be damaging your professional credibility. From overused corporate buzzwords to awkward attempts at humour, certain email habits are secretly irritating colleagues and managers across British offices.
The Corporate Jargon That's Killing Your Credibility
We've all been guilty of leaning on familiar phrases when crafting work emails, but some commonly used expressions are doing more harm than good. Phrases like "circle back," "touch base," and "think outside the box" have become so overused they've lost all meaning, making the sender appear unoriginal and lacking in genuine insight.
The Most Annoying Email Habits Revealed
Communication specialists highlight several categories of email mistakes that professionals should avoid:
- Unnecessary urgency: Marking every email as "urgent" when it's not actually time-sensitive
- Over-apologising: Beginning emails with "Sorry to bother you" undermines your message before it's even read
- Vague requests: Using phrases like "Let me know your thoughts" without specific direction
- Corporate buzzwords: Empty phrases that add complexity without clarity
What to Use Instead
Rather than falling back on tired corporate speak, experts recommend being direct, specific and human in your email communications. Instead of "reaching out," simply state what you need. Replace "at the end of the day" with the actual point you're trying to make. The most effective workplace emails are those that communicate clearly without unnecessary filler words or pretentious language.
With remote and hybrid work becoming increasingly common, the quality of our written communication has never been more important to career progression. Cleaning up your email vocabulary could be one of the simplest ways to enhance your professional image and ensure your messages are taken seriously.
