Image source, Getty ImagesByYasmin RufoPublished15 December 2025 At first glance, my emails are polite and warm, after all "I'm just checking" in on a deadline but "no worries either way". However, a closer look reveals my messages are punctuated by unnecessary apologies, smiley faces, exclamation marks and even kisses. I like to think I'm being friendly and approachable, but according to experts, these linguistic habits may be quietly undermining how seriously I'm taken at work. Careers coach Hannah Salton and etiquette coach William Hanson explain why so many of us write like this and the impact it could be having on how we're perceived, and even promoted at work. "Thanks very much!" I've replied to many an email – my punctuation may be extra but a full stop feels blunt. People use exclamation marks to show "positivity and enthusiasm," says Hannah.
Published: December 15, 2025 12:38 am
Source: BBC — Read original