What About Emojis In Professional Communication?

Emojis in professional communication can be used to more effectively send a message, or to aid in emphasizing specific points.

They can also cause confusion – or even jeopardize your job.

What’s critical is to know your industry and your company:

• In professions that are more formal, emojis in an email may not ever be appropriate nor acceptable; seemingly they may be viewed as disrespectful, less credible and too casual.
• On the other hand, in fields that are less formal, emojis in an email may be more commonplace and feasible. Still, use them with restraint, and to support positive communication/context and a friendly tone.

Hierarchy matters as well: don’t use emojis first when sending an email to management, or potential new or existing clients. Let them set the tone, and as you build the relationship use emojis in similar manners – or not at all.

Furthermore, consider how you can clarify your message best through the most basic form of writing: words, grammar, punctuation and/or bullet points. A well-written message exemplifies outstanding communication skills, and reflects on you positively.

Perhaps though, there are certain internal communication channels within your company in which emojis are appropriate. If this is the case, again, use them professionally and minimally, or as company policy deems acceptable. And if emojis are not used by your managers or co-workers, follow suit.

In addition, be mindful of multi generations as well as specific platforms for the most effective workplace messaging if you’re using emojis. Boomers through Gen Z each have varying nuances/understanding/associations when it comes to emojis; know and use them accordingly. And be aware that various external and internal channels of communication may connote emojis differently.

The bottom line when it comes to using emojis in professional communication? Be the utmost professional if/when using emojis, always use the power of the well-written word, and utilize emojis only to positively add meaning.