Workplace Multiplier by Tola Akinsulire

Tuesday Edition: December 3, 2024

Welcome to the Workplace Multiplier newsletter. Published every Tuesday & Friday, we discover something crucial to help us on the way to winning at work and in life.

Why Your Emails Keep Getting Misread (And How to Fix It)

Years ago, I received an email from a colleague in another country. It was one of those "someone told me to send this to you" emails, and at first glance, it seemed routine. But there was a problem.

The email was lacking context. It failed to account for my role, the nuances of my team, and the cultural differences that could shape how the tone and intent could be interpreted.

Rather than getting the ball over the net, it bounced back to their side of the court.

This is a monster many of us battle daily in global teams or diverse and multi-generational workplaces: communication that fails to connect because it doesn’t consider perspective.

I picked up the phone to give the person on the other side a quick conversation. It took a bit of talking before the eureka moment happened on the other side.

When sending an email, leading a meeting, or even drafting a memo, you need to ask:

• What will this message mean to the person receiving it?
• What perspectives shape how they interpret this?

Here is an example you might be able to get.

Imagine a U.S.-based manager sending an email to a colleague in Japan requesting feedback. In American culture, directness can be seen as efficient. But in Japanese culture, harmony and indirect language are highly valued. A direct email might feel abrupt—or even offensive.

This gap is where cross-cultural communication becomes a superpower.

By understanding and adapting to cultural and individual perspectives, we bridge divides. We ensure our words not only reach people but also resonate.

Let me share an invaluable lesson I have learned: clarity comes from shared understanding. Now, before sending any important communication, you follow these three steps:

1. Pre-Email Conversations: If it’s critical, pick up the phone first. A quick call clarifies expectations and aligns perspectives, reducing the chances of misinterpretation.
2. Ask Before You Send: Mentally review: Does this communication answer questions the recipient will naturally ask? Things like, “What does this mean for me?” and “Why does it matter?”
3. Adopt the Grace Rule: Words have power. The good book in Colossians 4:6 reminds us to speak with grace, seasoned with salt—an analogy for being considerate, tactful, and impactful.

By applying these principles, you can turn potential misfires into success stories. Communication that could have derailed a project instead strengthened collaboration.

And the best part? These skills aren’t just for leaders in global teams. They’re for anyone navigating workplace dynamics—whether it’s with a boss, client, or peer.

Don’t think just because you work for an organisation within the country of your birth where everyone carries the same passport, you are exempt.

Newsflash, you have at least 4 generations working concurrently in the workplace – Gen X, Millenials, Gen Z and of course, Baby Boomers. Someone remarked to me, “I have all the generations at my workplace”.

Every generation has its cultural lingo and communication nuances. You get better results when you can frame your workplace communications to address them.

Are you ready to level up your workplace communication? Start with these simple steps:

1. Audit Your Emails: Review one email today. Does it address the recipient’s perspective? Could it be misunderstood?
2. Get Feedback: Ask a trusted colleague if your tone and intent are clear in recent communications.
3. Learn the Culture: If you work in a multicultural environment, take time out to research one cultural nuance of your team members.

Remember: words don’t just communicate facts; they convey meaning, perspective, and intention.

You can use them to connect, inspire, and win—one message at a time.

As always, keep winning at work and in life.

Tola Akinsulire

I am a Workplace Multiplier

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