6 Toxic Phrases to Avoid In Work Emails (And What To Say Instead)

Avoid the phrase: “Sorry this is late!”

Instead say: “Thank you for your patience.”

As often as possible, try to frame your contributions in a positive light (even if the situation is negative —say, if you missed a deadline by a few hours). Being grateful instead of repentant will usually leave a better taste in your coworker’s mouth, and that can have a big impact on how they remember you next time. If they bring up your tardiness after the fact, then you can apologize. (That said, don’t make a habit of being late to begin with! Here are 13 habits of people who are always on time.)