Emails might feel like ancient technology compared to the fast-paced world of DMs, texts, and Snap streaks. But let’s get real: they’re not going anywhere, especially when it comes to school, work, and professional communication.
Saint Stephen’s students, like many high schoolers, are churning out emails that are often a confusing mess of slang and brevity, missing the mark on what it means to communicate effectively in a formal setting.
“There’s nothing that irritates me more than getting an email from a student who can’t even address me by name,” Upper School Spanish Teacher Sharon Galligan said regarding student-to-teacher email communications.
“If you’re expecting me to respond to you at midnight, you better have the courtesy to at least write a subject line.”
For Galligan, the issue is a daily occurrence. She added that she’d received hundreds of messages from students who seem to confuse their teacher for their friend.
It’s time to face the truth—our generation’s email game needs some serious work, and it’s high time we address it.
In The Guardian article, Does Generation Z Know How to Email Properly? Poppy Noor explains that the struggle to master email etiquette is a real issue. Noor highlights that many young people are confused when it comes to communicating in a professional manner, often resulting in poorly written, unclear, or inappropriate emails.
Arrman Kyaw adds to this, arguing in, E-Communication Skills: Bridging a Gap that students frequently send lousy emails due to constant engagement with platforms that encourage short and casual language.
For many high school students, the lack of formality in communications with teachers looks like this: you’re working on your history homework but you forgot what the specific assignment was. You email your teacher and say, “Hey, what are we doing again?”
A few minutes later you receive a less-than-enthusiastic reply.
Why? Because your message, while brief, is also impolite and unhelpful. It’s like showing up to a formal dinner in jeans and a T-shirt, and then expecting to be treated like a VIP.
So, how can Gen Z bridge this gap and elevate their email game? The solution lies in mastering a few simple rules of etiquette. By adhering to the following guidelines, emails can go from trash to terrific ensuring that the message is said clearly and respectfully.
By elevating our email game, we’ll show that our generation can master more than just the latest TikTok trends.
Emails may not be as fun as Snapchat, but they’re part of adulting. Mastering these dos and don’ts will not only help you communicate more effectively but also make a lasting impression in your academic and professional life.
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