Etiquette Archives

graphic explaining the use of business conventions such as "dear___"

Do I Have to Call You “Dear”?

Dear Reader: I’m not sure whether it’s gender-based or not, but it certainly seems that more men than women have trouble opening a business letter with the salutation “Dear _____.” In a recent writing class in Bellevue, Washington, several men admitted they couldn’t force themselves… continue reading

13 Little Words

I just got a quick 13-word email that made me smile and made my work life easier. The pleasing message was simply this: “I don’t know–but I’ll find out and get back to you ASAP.” No, it’s no subtle pun that amused me. It’s that… continue reading

When Writing Is Cruel

Today at a business lunch I heard a tale of bad manners in business writing. Here’s the story: A job candidate, who had been searching for a position for quite a while, had four interviews with a prestigious Seattle firm. Naturally, he was getting excited.… continue reading

Redefining the “Royal We”

The "royal we" has a questionable reputation. According to The American Heritage College Dictionary, it means "the pronoun used by a sovereign . . . to refer to himself or herself." I’d like to present a new definition of the self-absorbed we. I propose that… continue reading

How to Frustrate Readers

In our office and home, we just changed Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Going through the grueling process of understanding the new screen and procedures, I am reminded of three ways to frustrate readers: Avoid telling readers how to do the essential tasks of their lives.… continue reading