Hello!

please say just hello in chat

Imagine dialing up someone and just dropping your question like a bomb... 🤷‍♀️ Think of fun parties where you don't just start off with "Yo, pass the chips?" but a nice, friendly, "Hey there!". That's exactly how chats should be!










❌ Don't do this:
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Peter 2:15 PM
schedule?
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Tom 2:16 PM
What, um.. 4:30?
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Peter 2:16 PM
K thanks
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Tom 2:17 PM
...uh okay.

That was a slight bummer. Peter could've spent just a split second to throw in a hi, and the conversation would've been a tad bit more enjoyable, leaving Tom less confused and far more engaged!

Oftentimes, people skip the pleasantries thinking that they're saving time. It's 2023 and yes, chat is swift, but it's not a race! Typing is slower than talking, but that shouldn't strip a conversation of its cordial charm. Even in haste, a hello can go a long way in making the other person feel appreciated (and it's definitely less awkward).

The same goes for:

  • "powerpoint?"
  • "you there?"
  • "the video?"
  • "Updating reports?"
  • "Deadline?"
  • etc.

A simple hello wouldn't hurt! 😫

✅ Instead do this:
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Emily 2:15 PM
Hello!
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Tom 2:16 PM
Hey!
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Emily 2:16 PM
I was wondering about our meeting time, do you know when it is?
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Tom 2:16 PM
Yeah, it's at 4:30.
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Emily 2:17 PM
Thanks!
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Tom 2:17 PM
No problem.

See? Emily threw in a hello, and immediately, the conversation feels more natural. Had Emily thrown in his question before Tom got a chance to respond, it could've created unnecessary anxiety or confusion.

If you're of the opinion that it's sometimes too blunt to just toss your question, you absolutely can start your message with a pleasant greeting.

How 'bout:

  • "Hey bud, what's up? Also, do you remember the deadline for that project?"
  • "Hi! I trust all is well. Could you share the latest deck when you have a moment?"
  • "Hello, hope it's not too crazy at your end today, but would you mind updating those NFRS?"
  • "Hi there! When are you going to release the API?"
  • "Hey! Can you release the project today?"
  • etc.

So even if it may seem small - starting off with a warm eerily makes way for better asynchronous communication. Even if the other person is currently away, a hello can make them feel warm and fuzzy, and they can enthusiastically answer your question upon return, instead of feeling like a question dispensing machine.

When done right - everyone's walking around with a smile! 🎉