So every so often I get complaints about being too blunt in emails. Why is this a problem?
I say my please and thank yous.
I have been told I need to show interest in our contacts but unless I get to know the contact it feels smarmy to do the whole: 'how is your day? Hope the weather is good' spiel so I rarely do that.
I just straight say:
The name of the employee what happened what needs to be either clarified or fixed. How it can be fixed if it's something I know how to be fixed. If it needs clarification I ask for it.
If it's a client that is known to either argue or ignore what we ask to be fixed I provide the consequences (that their all told originally but they tend to ignore)
I think some of the contacts use me being blunt or straightforward as an excuse when they don't like being asked questions about their own mistakes or they've been ignoring my emails and it's been pointed out or when they contradict themselves.
I think some contacts I get blunter with them as I realize they really have no idea how to do their jobs or read emails and I get more frustrated as it becomes obvious. Plus sometimes my bluntness is an attempt to make it less obvious that I'm mentally calling them dumbasses as I write the email.
Why do people get so upset by this? Why is seemingly kissing ass more professional than straight out asking questions? I know those people who say hope your having a great day don’t give a shit about my day.
How do you guys ask for things to be done/fixed/clarified without making yourself feel disingenuous?
Thanks