Bring back emails with TYPOS!
In today's fast paced digital space, where AI is seamlessly integrated into our daily tasks, the authenticity of human communication can sometimes feel diluted.
Which then got me thinking! Because of the amount of emails we send on a daily basis, its particularly evident in email correspondence, where automated replies and perfectly polished, include the green ticks, light bulbs, bolded paragraphs and all the emojis you could possibly think of - OH and don’t forget the en-dashes!!
However, there's a refreshing perspective emerging that celebrates the human touch, even if it comes with a typo or two and the not so perfect scripted email.
Emails have become a primary mode of professional and personal communication. They allow us to connect instantly across distances, share information, and collaborate efficiently. Yet, amongst this efficiency, something crucial can be lost. The genuine, imperfect essence of human interaction.
Consider this. When was the last time you received an email with a grammatical error? (kudos to you if you have of late) … perhaps it made you pause for a moment? Instead of dismissing it as a minor error, think of it as a sign that a real person was behind the screen taking the time and consideration to really address the email. These imperfections arent major faults, but reminders of our shared humanity. Reverse engineer it perhaps?
AI has undoubtedly enhanced productivity and accuracy in many aspects of our lives, including email communication. Automated responses are quick, efficient, and often flawless in grammar and spelling. However, they lack the nuances and empathy that human communication inherently carries. At times they feel as though they have been fallen victim to a good ol’ cut and paste. They can feel cold to read, impersonal, lack emotion and sometimes too perfect to be true.
Contrary to the quest for perfection, personalsed emails can be seen as a breath of fresh air. - follow up emails after a webinar and newsletters included!! They signal that a message has been crafted by a human mind, with a unique thought process and the occasional slip up. Lets face it, we’re only human! A typo (or grammatical error) can indicate authenticity, a reminder that behind every email, there's a person with thoughts, feelings, and individual quirks.
As we navigate the digital age, let's remember that the essence of communication sits not in flawless grammar or perfectly crafted responses, but in the sincerity and empathy conveyed through our words. We’re not saying don’t use AI in fact embrace it like the rest of us are! But before you hit send, think about the person on the other end.
Hot tips from personal experience of late?
Personalise your message. Use your guest, clients’ name, mention shared context, or refer to previous conversations. A little goes a long way.
Add tonality. Sound like you. Whether it’s friendly, warm, direct, or a bit cheeky, tone helps humanise your message.
Keep it clear and concise. Avoid rambling. Think: “Would I say this out loud?”
Make sure it’s relevant. Double check that your email actually responds to what was sent, especially if there's an attachment or specific ask.
Don’t over-polish. It’s okay if it’s not perfect. A typo or casual phrasing can make it feel more human.
Use AI mindfully. Let it help you, absolutely use it to your advantage, but don’t let it erase your voice. Add your quirks, context, and personal touch.
Think about the reader. Who are they? What do they need? Do they know me? How would they best receive this message?
Avoid jargon overload. Keep it simple and digestible. Not every email needs to sound like a formal proposal.
Add a sign-off that reflects you. “Cheers,” “Thanks heaps,” “Speak soon”. ‘Later’ “See you Soon’
Slightly controversial I know - but lets put it out there! Let me know your thoughts. See any grammatical errors??
