Do you really hope I'm well?
Over the last few years, I've seen?an increase in what I call the, “I hope statement” in e-mails.
It typically goes, “Hey, Amber! I hope you are well.” Then it’s followed by whatever the intended content of the e-mail is or by some type of request.
On its surface, it’s not a big deal. It’s just a simple pleasantry we use to soften or warm up our digital communication, which in theory, is a good idea.?
Where I think we go wrong, though, is overusing it in a way that comes across as empty and disingenuous. After 30 e-mails of receiving that same greeting, it starts to come across as flat and dry.
Whenever I am leading communication skills sessions for groups and teams, I challenge people to think about why they use the “I hope statement” and other ones like, “Let me know if you have any questions.” Most times it’s out of pure habit and these phrases become extra noise in e-mails and missed opportunities to connect with the human on the receiving end.
My goal is not to convince people to stop using the phrase, but instead, to see it as a way to genuinely convey their intention with using it. (Unless you don’t mean it. In that case, do away with it, altogether!)
If you’re a prolific “I hope statement” writer, here are a few alternatives to help you share them with a bit more sincerity, and remember that you’re talking to another human!
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Naturally, these are just for inspiration. Write what feels comfortable for you, fits the context you’re writing the e-mail, and is appropriate for whom you’re sending it.
The idea is for you to break free of the standard, “I hope you’re well,” and take a more genuine approach to that greeting!
Big Smiles,
Dr. Amber L. Wright
P.S.??This post was sent first to the members of the Words Well Said e-mail community. Want first dibs on content like this? Join us! Subscribe here.
Executive Director @ Nevus Outreach Inc. | Leading a Global Nevus Community |EUPATI Fellow| Rare Disease KOL
1 年I always say, “I hope I caught you in the middle of a great day!”
AI Integration & Strategic Advisor | Driving $75K+ Annual Savings with AI Systems | Championing AI Literacy in Nonprofits and Education | Creator of Accredited AI Certification for Workforce Development (4.8/5 Rating)
1 年Depending on when I message them, I say "I hope your week if off to a great start/or your week is going well thus far."
Founder at kid-grit, Leadership Lover, WBENC Certified Business Owner, Passionate Keynote Speaker
1 年Using this w our team and me! Thank you!
Product Marketing Manager @Cisco I craft fresh, go to market magic for global IT and cybersecurity courses.
1 年Planning to actively work on this! Such a great share Amber!
Connector of dots and people. Small business advocate and advisor. Exited Founder of Her Power Space #weallwin
1 年At the risk of exposing myself as callous…I purposefully say, “I hope you’re well” because I don’t want create a non essential communication volley by making it a question. It can cut at least 3 rounds of small talk. I may ask other questions depending on the topic but I KNOW that in many short form contexts like DMs and texts I state it. Very thoughtful and thought-provoking write up.