The power of :)


Disclaimer: I understand you can't be using symbols like :) in a formal letter/ email to the Prime Minister or the Chairman of the company... so the observation below is something that can be used in your everyday written communication within your teams or colleagues that you work with in the office.

You know how when you open your email or sms and there are some that make you smile at the end... and some that leave you confused...wishing you had never opened them!!!

It's not so bad when the sms or email you receive is a fun loving one from one of your buddies... but I sometimes find work or serious emails quite frustrating as I tend to interpret the worst when reading these communications.

I don't know about you, but I have certainly gone through this experience many times... The problem about written communication sometimes, ( well at least in my point of view) is that it is very hard to interpret the tone that the writer wishes to highlight through their message. Well, I'm pretty sure this isn't the case for many well known writers out there. Unfortunately, we are no JK Rowlings or Elizabeth Gilbert who are able to make sure that the message is clear and is understood in the right tone.

Especially in a work environment, it is important to make sure that you get the right message and tone at all times. More than often, many of my emails leave me frustrated because I misinterpret the tone that comes from the email.

That's why I prefer verbal communication :) but unfortunately that is not always the option, isn't it? :) So when I can't help it... I always try to make sure that my emails are not that long, point form ( if necessary) - so that it is easier to read and my secret is the power of :)


An example:
a) The sky is blue. If you didn't know this, you should have asked.
b) The sky is blue. If you didn't know this, you should have asked. :)

Which one do you prefer to see in your inbox?

Try it out as you find that you are still able to get things done, send the right message but at the same time make the people/your team and the office environment less stressful or tensed!

Virtual or physical smileys always make a difference :)  Have a great week everyone...