In today's remote environment, workers largely build and maintain relationships through writing. Emails, direct messages, and texts often stand in for opportunities to speak face-to-face or on the phone. Use these tips to ensure your writing reflects emotional intelligence, which will drive trust, connection, and information.

1. Use you with care.

The word you can feel like an accusation if used carelessly. Use it when sharing positive information, but discuss the topic, subject, or goal instead of the individual when the information is negative.

2. Phrase difficult information productively.

Exercise productive word choice by focusing on what can happen instead of what can't and choosing solution-oriented language that points to the future. (Instead of "We can't fulfill your request because you didn't submit Form D," say, "When we receive Form D, we can fulfill your request.")

3. Reference others respectfully.

Refer to your reader and others with their personal pronouns, or use their name or position or title if you aren't sure. It's also OK to ask.