(Typing While Angry)
By: Caitlin Starkey
Multiple studies have shown that about 50% of all emails are misinterpreted. I think we all have relate. Someone, whether it be a coworker, student, teacher or friend, has frustrated you and now you’re about to send off an angry email without really thinking it through.
These type of emails are usually filled with bolded words, excessive use of capital letters, broken sentences and grammatical errors. No one wants to be on the receiving end of such a message. Not only are they disrespectful, it makes the sender look like a jerk. What’s worse is that, as the sender, you may be right voicing your opinion with supporting facts but the way you chose to express your concerns was wrong.
Read these tips below and take them into consideration before you send off an angry email.
1. Ask “when can we meet?” I know, face to face interactions are so 2001, but they are very important when it comes to communication and getting your point across with as little confusion as possible. Often times emails and texts can go ignored or even misinterpreted. So, if you can avoid sending an email, do so.
2. Think about it. Anger is like a bolt of lightening, now you see it, now you don’t. Give your emotions some time to settle down before you reply and hit send. An immediate response is never the way to go.
3. Get a proofreader. Have someone you know and trust review your email. Personally, I compose emails and send them to my mother for advice. That extra pair of eyes can spot errors and offer effective revisions.
4. Be Professional. Don’t neglect the format. A professional email should be written the same way you would a letter, include a greeting and salutation. Try not to use a lot of exclamations and zero slang. Speaking of slang, please no emojis. I know the urge to insert a huge face with steam spewing from it’s nostrils is a hard one to fight back, but resist! I also read a tip that says, don’t CC your boss on an email to ‘keep them informed’. Neither party looks good and shows the boss two professionals cannot handle problems on their own. Same goes for the ‘reply all’ option. It brings others into the conflict that more than likely have nothing to do with the solution.
Finally, make sure you ask yourself why you are sending an email. Is an email really the right way to go? If the answer is yes, than I hope these few tips will help you get your frustrations out effectively and professionally.