WhatsApp and Slack at work.

More and more work happens in chat: WhatsApp groups, Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Chat. Chat is faster than email, but it's still work. Today you'll learn how to message professionally without sounding stiff.

The golden rules of work chat

• Say everything in one message, not five: "Hi" … "Are you there?" … "I have a question" … makes people wait.
• Be clear and complete: what you need, by when.
• Use full words: "please", not "pls"; "you", not "u".
• Respect time: avoid messaging late at night or on weekends unless urgent; schedule messages if your app allows.
• Use threads (Slack/Teams) to keep conversations organised.

One message, not five

Not good:

Hi
Rahul
Are you free?
Need something

Good:

Hi Rahul, could you send me the client list for Banjara Hills
when you get a chance? I need it for the 4 pm call. Thanks!

Emojis and tone

• A 👍 or "Noted" is fine to confirm something in most teams.
• Avoid too many emojis with seniors and clients.
• Text can sound harsher than you mean. "Why is this late?" can feel like an attack. Try: "Hi, just checking on the report. Any update on the timeline?"

Voice notes

Voice notes are common in India, but many people can't listen at work. For work, prefer text, or keep voice notes short and send a one-line summary too.

What never to send

• Passwords, OTPs, Aadhaar or bank details in chat groups.
• Gossip or complaints about colleagues (screenshots last forever).
• Forwards, jokes or political/religious debates in work groups.