Writing to the boss

You need to be careful to sound polite and diplomatic when you write to people with high status, such as your boss or a client. Make sure you use the correct verb forms to avoid sounding too direct. Here are some tips for writing politely.

1. Make a suggestion rather than giving advice.

"We should commission a report" becomes "Perhaps we could commission a report."

2. Make a request rather than saying what you think.

"We need to discuss my salary" becomes "Would it be possible to discuss my salary?"

3. Instead of giving orders, make a request.

"I would like you to sign this letter" becomes "Could you sign this letter?"

4. Involve the other person, rather than focusing on your own needs.

"We need to meet the suppliers" becomes "Do you think we should / could meet the suppliers?" Or "It might be useful to meet the suppliers."

See also the article on staying polite.