Professional email response ideas- sorry or not sorry
- Jincy James
- Dec 15, 2020
- 2 min read
Working in the corporate environment close to 5-years I have a few e-mail templates responses for various situations- feel free to add your own flare when sending them out.
Missed to respond or forwarded incorrect information etc. in short you need to redeem yourself from the sticky situation and as a result your email may often start with SORRY or APOLOGIES FOR (enter reason here). Here are a few ways to respond: Instead of "sorry for the wait", "apologies for the holdup" , "I'm so sorry" etc. Say Option 1: Excuse me for the delayed response Option 2: Thank you for your understanding Option 3: Thank you for your patience Why this works: When you over-apologize for situations that you have little to no control over psychologically people think less of you. Research proved that individuals who over-apologizers are perceived to be someone who is weak and lack confidence. It also diminishes the value of "I'm sorry" for when you use them in future. That said, its important to recognize and be self-aware of when to use "sorry". For instance, if you are at fault then own up to it and have the courage to apologize. It will only strengthen your relationship with your peers.
Here's a situation, a collogues/co-worker expresses that you were rude/impolite to them. Response: Thank you for letting me know that (state the issue). This is never my intention. I apologies if my actions/messages made you uncomfortable. I will be mindful of this same. My guess is that you didn't behave a certain way intentionally. Therefore the right way to approach this would be: To assess the matter at hand and try to recognize what action of yours upset them.
If you unable to point you finger on it, clarify with them directly but remember DO NOT GET DEFENSIVE/ARROGANT.
Understand what they feel either have an honest conversation or you could email/message them.
Further pointers: Express sincerity Promise future excellence Offer an immediate remedy
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