Lesson 43 of 46

Making polite requests

Sound respectful without sounding stiff or blunt.

The rules

1.English politeness comes from softening, not only from saying "please".
2.Use could/would: "Could you send me the file?" Use "I was wondering if…" or "Would it be possible to…" for bigger asks.
3.Avoid bare commands and "you must" with managers, clients, and strangers.
4.Give a reason or a deadline, and say thanks: "Could you reply by Friday? Thank you."

Incorrect: ~~Give me your update.~~

Correct: Could you share your update when you get a chance?

Softer and friendlier.

Incorrect: ~~I want a day off.~~

Correct: I'd like to request a day off on Friday.

"I'd like to" sounds professional.

Incorrect: ~~You must reply today.~~

Correct: Could you reply by end of day today?

A question with a clear deadline.

Watch out: The more senior or unfamiliar the reader, the softer the request should be.

1. Most polite when writing to a manager:

2. Softer version of "I want to schedule a meeting.":

3. ___ you mind sharing the slides?

Paste any text and see exactly what to fix, with the rule explained.