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Consider this scenario: In the workplace, we sometimes perceive language as a micro-aggression. One that fuels already bad feelings among co-workers and causes stress.  Other times, we tell ourselves it’s probably just a phrase our boss picked up in business school and doesn’t realize how patronizing and stuffy it looks in print.

An example is of Melissa and Rosalee, co-workers who were om friendly terms, until things started going downhill, after they started working together. 

Consider their GChat conversation:

“Melissa: Hey girl! I know you’re busy, but could you get me that draft report today?

Rosalee: Oh hey! Yeah of course, amiga.  Technically I have until tomorrow, but sure, whatever you might need! Melissa: Thank you soooo much! Actually the project schedule shows it for yesterday, but I didn’t want to bug you then, just to make sure we’re on the same page going forward I’ll send you a link to the schedule 😊😊😊 thanks for sending that report right away, want to grab some coffee?

Rosalee: Thanks for the offer, but no, actually have to work on that report now.  Don’t worry though, I’ll make sure to review that schedule too, right away. Enjoy your day, Melissa. 😊” (Dhawan, 2021)

Adapted from Dhawan, E. (2021). Digital body language. How to build trust & connection, no matter the distance. New York: St. Partin’s Press

How might Melissa have approached this communication to make it less stressful to Rosalee? (200 words)