Hi,
My words to you today are……KEEP THAT DOOR OPEN!
I write it in CAPS because I really mean it.
Let me explain….
Have you ever ended an email with ‘I hope I have informed you enough’?
Well, guess what?
Most English people don’t speak Dutch. (This is shocking news, I know Hope you are reading this sitting down.)
So we don’t know that this is an English translation of a phrase often used to end Dutch emails. We only see what we see, and we naturally evaluate it in our own linguistic and cultural framework.
At surface level, this could be considered rude – to many people it might sound like you are brushing them off at the end of the mail. Like….’I hope this is enough for you – this is all you’re getting, because this is all I’m giving, because I’m done now. I’m not sure if it’s sufficient, but I sure hope it is!’. Buh- bye!
Bah. You can do better.
How about keeping that door of communication open, and letting that person know that you are still here for them if they need anything?
Chances are they will need nothing from you.
But the fact that you end with kindness and generosity could make all the difference in their perception of your professional communication.
I’d like to share some phrases that might help you round off in a more professional way.
How about these instead:
‘Should you need anything else, don’t hesitate to let me know.’
‘I’m happy to answer any questions that you might have.’
‘Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or comments’.
‘If I can be of further assistance, just let me know.’
‘If you require more information, don’t hesitate to reach out at any time.’
What a difference, right?
These useful phrases are from Module 5 in my Business English Communication Course. If you’d like to get serious about learning more about, activating, and getting clear and honest feedback on your English communication skills, I’ve got it all right here for you! I designed this for busy people who still want a comprehensive (and fun!) way to improve their English vocabulary, pronunciation, grammar, writing skills, and find lots of pro tips and tricks for using formal and informal language, meetings, negotiations, presentations and so much more. With worksheets, answer pages, and downloadable slides from every video masterclass. You can now learn with me anywhere and everywhere. And always. (You get lifetime access.)
I hope this helps you communicate with more confidence!
And, as always, should you require any more information, don’t hesitate to reach out. Happy to help!
Have a great week!
Love, Buffi