Polite formulas for addressing a supervisor

In a professional setting, it may happen that an email is sent to a colleague of the same hierarchical level, to a subordinate or a superior. In either case, polite way of saying to use is not the same. To write to a hierarchical superior, there are well-adapted polite formulas. When you do it wrong, it can seem quite discourteous. Discover in this article the polite formulas to use for a hierarchical superior.

When to capitalize

When addressing a person of a higher hierarchical rank, we generally use “Mr.” or “Ms.”. To show consideration for your interlocutor, it is advisable to use the capital letter. It does not matter whether the designation "Sir" or "Madam" is contained in the appeal form or in the final form.

In addition, it is recommended to also use the capital letter to designate names relating to dignities, titles or functions. We will therefore say, depending on whether we write to the director, the rector or the president, "Mr. Director", "Mr. Rector" or "Mr. President".

What kind of politeness to conclude a professional email?

To conclude a professional email when addressing a supervisor, there are several polite formulas. However, keep in mind that the polite formula at the end of the email must be compatible with that relating to the call.

Thus, you can use polite formulas to conclude a professional email, such as: "Please accept Mr. Director, expressing my distinguished feelings" or "Please believe, Mr. Chairman and CEO, in the expression of my deep respect ”.

To keep it short, exactly as the structure of a professional email recommends, you can also use other polite expressions like: "Best regards". It is a polite formula which is very rewarding for the interlocutor or the correspondent. It clearly shows that you place him above the scrum in accordance with his status.

In addition, it is important to know that certain expressions or expressions of politeness relating to the expression of feelings must be used with great tact. This is the case when the sender or recipient is a woman. Accordingly, a woman is not advised to present her feelings to a man, even his supervisor. The reverse is also true.

However, as you can imagine, polite expressions such as "Kind regards" or "Sincerely" should be avoided. Rather, they are used among colleagues.

However, it is not all about using polite formulas properly. You should also pay special attention to spelling and grammar.

In addition, abbreviations should be avoided, as well as certain erroneous expressions such as: “I would appreciate it” or “Please accept…”. Rather, it is better to say “I would appreciate it” or “Please accept…”.