Final answer:
Achieving a conversational yet businesslike tone in workplace writing involves being polite and avoiding humor or sarcasm, respecting cultural differences without engaging in too personal or lengthy conversations, and adhering to a formal style and specific document forms while remaining open to the organization's style.
Step-by-step explanation:
In workplace writing, the goal is to maintain a tone that is conversational yet still businesslike. This requires a delicate balance, ensuring communication is polite, courteous, and shows respect for the reader. Using humor or sarcasm should be avoided as these can often be misconstrued in written form. Cultural differences should be respected, and while small talk is part of the workplace culture, it is important to maintain professional boundaries and avoid lengthy personal conversations during work hours. Business writing should follow a formal style without the use of contractions or colloquialisms, and maintain specific forms for different types of documents.
It is also crucial to avoid using text language, such as "u" for you or "r" for are, as it is not accepted in proper business communication. Additionally, professional communication should avoid projecting a sense of authority that could polarize conversation; instead, using language that fairly represents uncertainty can invite constructive conversations and express concern without a commanding tone. An organizational style may dictate certain informalities like dress code or addressing superiors, but a respectful demeanor is still essential.