September 3rd, 2021
0 min read
Have you noticed that communications from organizations that should know better often comes with an opening “Dear Colleague”?
What’s up with that?
According to Merriam-Webster, a colleague is: “an associate or coworker typically in a profession or in a civil or ecclesiastical office and often of similar rank or status; a fellow worker or professional.”
Sure, this is probably just a pet peeve of mine. I get that.
When I see an email that starts out that way my brain turns off. I just delete the damn thing.
I often get “Dear Colleague” emails from trade organization pitching something such as a call for nominations for the annual awards.
If I am on your list, you should know my name. It’s better to either say “Dear David” or just leave the salutation out completely.
David Meerman Scott is a business growth strategist, advisor to clever entrepreneurs who are building emerging companies, and the international bestselling author of a dozen books published in 30 languages. David’s high-energy keynote presentations, masterclasses, and virtual events educate, energize, and inspire.
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