In business, words can either build bridges or break deals.
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We send dozens of emails, messages, and proposals every week—with the assumption that our English is “good enough.”
But even experienced professionals (including native speakers) often make mistakes that lead to confusion, missed opportunities, or even damaged credibility.
Here’s a humanized, easy-to-read article on the most common English mistakes professionals make and how to fix them before they cost you a project, promotion, or client.
1. Using Overly Complex Language to Sound Professional
Mistake:
“Kindly be advised that we shall endeavor to action your request at the earliest convenience.”
Sounds formal, yes. But also robotic and distant.
Better Alternative:
“We’ll work on your request as soon as possible.”
Tip: Clarity beats complexity. Speak like a real human, not a contract lawyer.
2. Using Vague Words That Cause Confusion
Mistake:
“I’ll send it soon.” / “Let’s discuss later.” / “We should try to improve this.”
These words don’t set expectations.
Better Alternative:
“I’ll send it by 3 PM today.” / “Let’s discuss this tomorrow at 10 AM.” / “Let’s increase the conversion rate by 15% this quarter.”
Tip: Replace vague words with measurable details.
3. Mixing Up “Please find attached”
➤ Often used without context.
Mistake:
“Please find attached.” (No context, no follow-up.)
Better Alternative:
“I’ve attached the monthly report. Please let me know if you'd like a breakdown of the revenue numbers.”
Tip: Don’t just point to an attachment—explain what to do with it.
4. Overusing “Sorry” or “Just” (Undermining Confidence)
Mistake:
“Sorry for the delay.”
“Just checking if you saw my email.”
Better Alternative:
“Thank you for your patience.”
“Following up on my previous email.”
Tip: Replace an apologetic tone with appreciation or assertiveness.
To master assertive communication, here’s how to “sound more confident at work.”
5. Direct Translations from Native Language
Sometimes the sentence structure is correct, but it doesn’t sound natural in English.
Mistake:
“I am having interest in this project.”
“I do the needful.”
Better Alternative:
“I’m interested in this project.”
“I’ll take care of it.”
Tip: Avoid literal translation—focus on how native speakers express it.
6. Being Too Direct (Without Softening Language)
Especially common among technical and finance professionals.
Mistake:
“This idea won’t work.”
“You misunderstood.”
Better Alternative:
“I see potential, but we may face issues with implementation.”
“I might have understood it differently, could you clarify?”
Tip: Use softeners like "might," "could," "perhaps," and "I suggest."
If you’re unsure how to balance confidence and courtesy, read about tone in business writing
7. Ignoring Cultural Language Differences
What’s polite in one country may be rude in another.
Mistake:
“Send the report now.” (Too direct)
Better Alternative:
“Could you please send the report now?”
Tip: Use polite modal verbs. Could you… / Would you mind…
8. Confusing Tenses (Leading to Misinterpretation)
Mistake:
“I will update you after I updated my team.” (Confusing)
Better Alternative:
“I’ll update you after I speak with my team.”
Tip: Use future tense when referring to things that haven't happened yet.
9. Not Structuring Emails Clearly
Professionals often jump straight into the message without an intro, context, or call to action.
Mistake:
“The figures are inconsistent. Need corrections ASAP.”
Better Alternative:
Hi John,
I noticed inconsistencies in the figures from last week’s data.
Could you please review columns C–F and update them by EOD?
Thank you!For more on how to structure effective messages, check out how to write professional emails
10. Overusing “As per” or “Do the needful”
These sound outdated or overly formal.
Instead of:
“As per our discussion, please do the needful.”
Say:
“As discussed, please update the draft and send it to the client by Monday.”
Tip: Modern, conversational English feels more trustworthy.
Final Thoughts
Improving business communication isn’t just about grammar—it’s about clarity, tone, and confidence. The better you express ideas, the easier it is to influence decisions, gain respect, and build professional trust.
You don’t need perfect English. You need impactful English.
For deeper insights into workplace communication, explore this article on Harvard Business Review
Quick Checklist Before Sending Your Next Email
✔ Is it clear and direct?
✔ Does it sound human and respectful?
✔ Are timelines and expectations specific?
✔ Does the tone match the situation (assertive vs. polite)?
✔ Is there a clear next step or call to action?