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Should you use text abbreviations at work?
My coworkers and I had a debate on this today: should you use text abbreviations like "thx" or "brb" in professional communication? And is there a difference between email and an instant messenger, like gchat or slack? I think its inappropriate at any time, unless you're speaking to a friend, but I guess peoples opinions on this have loosened over the years.
12 Comments
Anonymous
12/10/19 at 5:15PM UTC
in
Funny timing cause I just saw the episode of The Office where Michael Scott starts a meeting by saying acronyms and no one understands them, so Pam tells him that it wasted more time for him to explain them than it would've to just say what he meant. This is a little different than what you're pointing to, but it does speak to the fact that we shouldn't use them at work if we can help it.
Anonymous
12/10/19 at 5:16PM UTC
in
There is definitely a difference between IMing and email to me! I think it's okay to send emojis through IM for example but not through email
Aubrea Ashe
75
12/10/19 at 5:27PM UTC
in
I second this :)
Sam SpicaCommunications Manager at FGB
2.82k
12/10/19 at 5:37PM UTC
in
Agreed! I shorten plenty of words on Slack but not over professional emails
Cyndi Peterson HashRecruiter | Dog Mom | Photographer
97
12/10/19 at 5:32PM UTC
in
I generally don't abbreviate unless I have a solid relationship with the person I'm messaging.
Madam anon663Learner, skeptic, direct.
392
12/10/19 at 5:41PM UTC
in
Never. Things might have loosened, but always present yourself as professional in your style of speaking whether spoken or written. You never know how this may affect any future career choices.
Lady PeleRetired Project Manager
3.95k
12/11/19 at 4:27PM UTC
in
I never use abbreviations / chat speak in a professional communication. Internally, I will use FYI, but that's about it.
Sexism and ageism on the job is difficult enough without giving anyone more ammunition.
Olivia Oz
846
12/11/19 at 7:57PM UTC
in
I try not to abbreviate unless I really know the person well enough that it's that casual of a conversation. I think it's case by case.
Nina SemczukHi! I'm the Head of SEO Content @ Fairygodboss
1.91k
12/11/19 at 8:33PM UTC
in
Same!
Maggie SBusiness and Data Analysis Consultant
981
12/17/19 at 6:56PM UTC
in
Depends on the relationship you have with the person you're messaging.
Jennifer HajeConsultant for IT, Social Media, CCMA
195
12/18/19 at 6:15PM UTC
in
I believe abbreviations should be used informally in texts and im. Formal communications have to be in proper grammar and spelling. Reputation is everything.
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