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How do I tell my boss to not use Comic Sans as their main email typeface?
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My boss uses Comic Sans for all of their e-mails. I don't mind it for intra-company communications, but it doesn't strike me as very professional to send out to clients as it doesn't have a very good reputation in the business world.
Because they're my superior, I feel awkward bringing it up, but I think it's something that needs to be brought up. How do I word it to my boss so they are not offended but also change their typeface to something more professional?
professionalism management email
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
 |Â
show 7 more comments
up vote
70
down vote
favorite
My boss uses Comic Sans for all of their e-mails. I don't mind it for intra-company communications, but it doesn't strike me as very professional to send out to clients as it doesn't have a very good reputation in the business world.
Because they're my superior, I feel awkward bringing it up, but I think it's something that needs to be brought up. How do I word it to my boss so they are not offended but also change their typeface to something more professional?
professionalism management email
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
24
The top answer to What is wrong with Comic Sans? on the graphic design site is written with remarkable restraint. Unlike most things written on Comic Sans it is pretty non-offensive, while still getting the point across
– user568458
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
5
To answer the question title specifically, You don't. You can try all of the suggested answers below to convince him to change his ways on his own, but in a corporate setting, you cannot force your boss to do anything he doesn't want to - and if he wants to use Comic Sans and will not be convinced to change his font type, you should not risk losing your own job over it.
– Zibbobz
Aug 5 '15 at 15:00
4
Why do you think that 1) Everyone who gets the email sees what font it was composed in, rather than the font they prefer to read? and 2) Of those who do see the email in its original font, what percentage do you think actually cares? Oh, and #3: Why on earth do people use anything but ASCII text in email, anyway?
– jamesqf
Aug 5 '15 at 17:37
3
I started to laugh, but then remembered the time when a student said she couldn't take my business class seriously because I used Comic Sans for a font. (For the record, it was Apple's Chalkboard, but still...)
– Dave Kanter
Aug 5 '15 at 22:21
7
Just as an aside, it's interesting how country cultures can differ. In a country like the Netherlands it would be a total non issue to casually mention something like this to your boss and it will be seen as a sign that you actually care. A reaction like "you should feel awkward bringing it up" is nearly impossible to imagine over there.
– David Mulder
Aug 6 '15 at 2:35
 |Â
show 7 more comments
up vote
70
down vote
favorite
up vote
70
down vote
favorite
My boss uses Comic Sans for all of their e-mails. I don't mind it for intra-company communications, but it doesn't strike me as very professional to send out to clients as it doesn't have a very good reputation in the business world.
Because they're my superior, I feel awkward bringing it up, but I think it's something that needs to be brought up. How do I word it to my boss so they are not offended but also change their typeface to something more professional?
professionalism management email
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
My boss uses Comic Sans for all of their e-mails. I don't mind it for intra-company communications, but it doesn't strike me as very professional to send out to clients as it doesn't have a very good reputation in the business world.
Because they're my superior, I feel awkward bringing it up, but I think it's something that needs to be brought up. How do I word it to my boss so they are not offended but also change their typeface to something more professional?
professionalism management email
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
edited Aug 5 '15 at 13:00
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
asked Aug 5 '15 at 12:51
BDD
5851817
5851817
24
The top answer to What is wrong with Comic Sans? on the graphic design site is written with remarkable restraint. Unlike most things written on Comic Sans it is pretty non-offensive, while still getting the point across
– user568458
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
5
To answer the question title specifically, You don't. You can try all of the suggested answers below to convince him to change his ways on his own, but in a corporate setting, you cannot force your boss to do anything he doesn't want to - and if he wants to use Comic Sans and will not be convinced to change his font type, you should not risk losing your own job over it.
– Zibbobz
Aug 5 '15 at 15:00
4
Why do you think that 1) Everyone who gets the email sees what font it was composed in, rather than the font they prefer to read? and 2) Of those who do see the email in its original font, what percentage do you think actually cares? Oh, and #3: Why on earth do people use anything but ASCII text in email, anyway?
– jamesqf
Aug 5 '15 at 17:37
3
I started to laugh, but then remembered the time when a student said she couldn't take my business class seriously because I used Comic Sans for a font. (For the record, it was Apple's Chalkboard, but still...)
– Dave Kanter
Aug 5 '15 at 22:21
7
Just as an aside, it's interesting how country cultures can differ. In a country like the Netherlands it would be a total non issue to casually mention something like this to your boss and it will be seen as a sign that you actually care. A reaction like "you should feel awkward bringing it up" is nearly impossible to imagine over there.
– David Mulder
Aug 6 '15 at 2:35
 |Â
show 7 more comments
24
The top answer to What is wrong with Comic Sans? on the graphic design site is written with remarkable restraint. Unlike most things written on Comic Sans it is pretty non-offensive, while still getting the point across
– user568458
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
5
To answer the question title specifically, You don't. You can try all of the suggested answers below to convince him to change his ways on his own, but in a corporate setting, you cannot force your boss to do anything he doesn't want to - and if he wants to use Comic Sans and will not be convinced to change his font type, you should not risk losing your own job over it.
– Zibbobz
Aug 5 '15 at 15:00
4
Why do you think that 1) Everyone who gets the email sees what font it was composed in, rather than the font they prefer to read? and 2) Of those who do see the email in its original font, what percentage do you think actually cares? Oh, and #3: Why on earth do people use anything but ASCII text in email, anyway?
– jamesqf
Aug 5 '15 at 17:37
3
I started to laugh, but then remembered the time when a student said she couldn't take my business class seriously because I used Comic Sans for a font. (For the record, it was Apple's Chalkboard, but still...)
– Dave Kanter
Aug 5 '15 at 22:21
7
Just as an aside, it's interesting how country cultures can differ. In a country like the Netherlands it would be a total non issue to casually mention something like this to your boss and it will be seen as a sign that you actually care. A reaction like "you should feel awkward bringing it up" is nearly impossible to imagine over there.
– David Mulder
Aug 6 '15 at 2:35
24
24
The top answer to What is wrong with Comic Sans? on the graphic design site is written with remarkable restraint. Unlike most things written on Comic Sans it is pretty non-offensive, while still getting the point across
– user568458
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
The top answer to What is wrong with Comic Sans? on the graphic design site is written with remarkable restraint. Unlike most things written on Comic Sans it is pretty non-offensive, while still getting the point across
– user568458
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
5
5
To answer the question title specifically, You don't. You can try all of the suggested answers below to convince him to change his ways on his own, but in a corporate setting, you cannot force your boss to do anything he doesn't want to - and if he wants to use Comic Sans and will not be convinced to change his font type, you should not risk losing your own job over it.
– Zibbobz
Aug 5 '15 at 15:00
To answer the question title specifically, You don't. You can try all of the suggested answers below to convince him to change his ways on his own, but in a corporate setting, you cannot force your boss to do anything he doesn't want to - and if he wants to use Comic Sans and will not be convinced to change his font type, you should not risk losing your own job over it.
– Zibbobz
Aug 5 '15 at 15:00
4
4
Why do you think that 1) Everyone who gets the email sees what font it was composed in, rather than the font they prefer to read? and 2) Of those who do see the email in its original font, what percentage do you think actually cares? Oh, and #3: Why on earth do people use anything but ASCII text in email, anyway?
– jamesqf
Aug 5 '15 at 17:37
Why do you think that 1) Everyone who gets the email sees what font it was composed in, rather than the font they prefer to read? and 2) Of those who do see the email in its original font, what percentage do you think actually cares? Oh, and #3: Why on earth do people use anything but ASCII text in email, anyway?
– jamesqf
Aug 5 '15 at 17:37
3
3
I started to laugh, but then remembered the time when a student said she couldn't take my business class seriously because I used Comic Sans for a font. (For the record, it was Apple's Chalkboard, but still...)
– Dave Kanter
Aug 5 '15 at 22:21
I started to laugh, but then remembered the time when a student said she couldn't take my business class seriously because I used Comic Sans for a font. (For the record, it was Apple's Chalkboard, but still...)
– Dave Kanter
Aug 5 '15 at 22:21
7
7
Just as an aside, it's interesting how country cultures can differ. In a country like the Netherlands it would be a total non issue to casually mention something like this to your boss and it will be seen as a sign that you actually care. A reaction like "you should feel awkward bringing it up" is nearly impossible to imagine over there.
– David Mulder
Aug 6 '15 at 2:35
Just as an aside, it's interesting how country cultures can differ. In a country like the Netherlands it would be a total non issue to casually mention something like this to your boss and it will be seen as a sign that you actually care. A reaction like "you should feel awkward bringing it up" is nearly impossible to imagine over there.
– David Mulder
Aug 6 '15 at 2:35
 |Â
show 7 more comments
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
up vote
112
down vote
accepted
Start by asking your manager if there's a reason why he chose Comic Sans.
Hey John, I noticed that you write your emails in Comic Sans font. Is there some specific reason you picked that font?
Most likely, he would respond with, "no specific reason", "it looked good", "my secretary configured it", etc.
Then continue with this:
I read an interesting article the other day, which said that Comic Sans has a mixed reputation in the business. I wonder what our client thinks about it, perhaps they don't care, but just thought I should let you know.
This gets the message across, doesn't sound condescending, ensures that your manager doesn't lose face, and also saves you from the awkwardness of "recommending" a font to your superior, because you are putting the decision in his hands. If your manager is a reasonable person, it is hard to imagine him taking offence to this, especially since you offered to first understand his reason rather than just pass judgement. :)
In addition, it also lets you save face if the manager has some genuine reason. For example, if the font was the default on his computer and he hasn't figured out how to change it, or the client "likes" that font!
PS: As David K pointed out in the comment, you might want to keep such an article handy. Make sure that it is from a reputed source, not a random blog, and don't send it to your manager unless he insists.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
8
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
3
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
2
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
1
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
27
down vote
There is a website Comic Sans Criminal, which allows you to sent your boss an anonymous e-mail informing about the inappropriateness of this font. If you do choose an appropriate timing and are not known as a typography expert at work, it should not be relatable to you.
Of course, this at most works for this particular problem and if your boss chooses to switch to Papyrus, you need a different solution. Also, you are probably burning the bridge to bring up this topic in a non-anonymous way, should this approach not work.
Note that I have not tested this service yet and thus do not know whether the mail contains IPs or other identifiable information. Neither do I know what they do with those e-mail adresses. Use at your own risk and better test it with a mail to yourself first.
Finally note that sharing your boss’s email may be or may be considered a breach of rules.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
31
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
1
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
32
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
45
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
2
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
 |Â
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up vote
7
down vote
Is there a reason to avoid directly asking the question? If you have regular one-on-one's with your boss, you could ask him about this during one of them (if you aren't having them start!). He may simply be unaware of how a typeface can affect the perception of the message.
I see no need for anonymous communication. This is an opportunity to show you are looking out for the company image and want to help.
You could start with something like:
Can I ask you a question about the font you use in email messages? I think you're using Comic-sans and in my experience it can carry a negative connotation, especially in a business setting. This is an area I'm interested in and I'd be happy to help select a strong font to carry our business message to our customers.
You could also come prepared with the website mentioned @Wrzlprmft's answer. And if you do go the route of wanting to suggest alternatives that are not "Times Roman", come prepared with those too. Bring solutions to the table!
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
1
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
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up vote
6
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The Approach
- Really the best way to approach your superior about something awkward is either make it a meeting or take them out for lunch. Believe it or not, bosses are people too and they do make mistakes as well. Ask him if you can treat him to a lunch, which will not only help your personal reputation but put him in a setting where he doesn't have his guard up, like most people do at work. If you want to have a meeting, send him an email to schedule something and say you wanted to talk about a few general things that are of concern to you.
The Conversation
- There's nothing better than being blunt. Truly, there are two ways to go about telling him: professionally or comically. Going the professional route would mean explaining to him all the details of why you're concerned and really showing him that you care about this. The comedic route would result in a small joke that he may or may not brush off by the end of the work day. Either way, do whatever you feel more comfortable with. It's perfectly ok to express any concerns you have in the workplace.
What Not To Do
Definitely do not tell him that the font is unprofessional. He will get upset if you insult him. Rather, say that you think that this is petty, but a better font might make the emails look cleaner. Compliment him on his writing or such before you bring this up.
Never start a conversation by saying that what you're about to say is useless or stupid. It seems to be a habit of people to degrade their topic of discussion before saying it so that they don't seem ridiculous. Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
2
down vote
I would tend to avoid some of the the possibly over-cautious approach of these answers. Of course, subtlety and wit is very important in a corporate environment, and naturally your job is something you want to be very careful with - but brevity is the soul of wit and he/she will appreciate your honesty.
Think of it this way, he's making a mistake - and he's unaware of it. One can either tell him, risking animosity over negative feedback, or leave him to keep making that mistake and make a fool of himself. He's (hopefully) not a tactless moron and he'll appreciate your courage to step in and try and help him out.
It's very important that you exercise compassionate speech and comradery in a situation like this, adhering strongly to the principle of "constructive criticism". So long as you can stay away from patronizing him or treating him with disrespect he'll probably be very grateful that you decided to inform him.
If it were me I'd find a time where we were both together under immediate pressure, and say something like
Hey, I'd been meaning to talk to you actually.
I'm a little concerned that a lot of people don't see the font you use in your emails as being appropriate for corporate communication - there's a general consensus that it's a kind of silly font. While I don't think any of us are in any way offended, this idea is pretty widespread and I'm just concious that you mightn't know of this. If you'd like I'd be interested in helping pick a font to better represent our business ...
It might seem childish or blunt to some, but in my own experiences I've found that simple honesty rarely goes amiss - speak your mind in a respectful manner at an appropriate time and there's very little to go wrong :) Good luck!
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
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5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
5 Answers
5
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
active
oldest
votes
up vote
112
down vote
accepted
Start by asking your manager if there's a reason why he chose Comic Sans.
Hey John, I noticed that you write your emails in Comic Sans font. Is there some specific reason you picked that font?
Most likely, he would respond with, "no specific reason", "it looked good", "my secretary configured it", etc.
Then continue with this:
I read an interesting article the other day, which said that Comic Sans has a mixed reputation in the business. I wonder what our client thinks about it, perhaps they don't care, but just thought I should let you know.
This gets the message across, doesn't sound condescending, ensures that your manager doesn't lose face, and also saves you from the awkwardness of "recommending" a font to your superior, because you are putting the decision in his hands. If your manager is a reasonable person, it is hard to imagine him taking offence to this, especially since you offered to first understand his reason rather than just pass judgement. :)
In addition, it also lets you save face if the manager has some genuine reason. For example, if the font was the default on his computer and he hasn't figured out how to change it, or the client "likes" that font!
PS: As David K pointed out in the comment, you might want to keep such an article handy. Make sure that it is from a reputed source, not a random blog, and don't send it to your manager unless he insists.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
8
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
3
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
2
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
1
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
112
down vote
accepted
Start by asking your manager if there's a reason why he chose Comic Sans.
Hey John, I noticed that you write your emails in Comic Sans font. Is there some specific reason you picked that font?
Most likely, he would respond with, "no specific reason", "it looked good", "my secretary configured it", etc.
Then continue with this:
I read an interesting article the other day, which said that Comic Sans has a mixed reputation in the business. I wonder what our client thinks about it, perhaps they don't care, but just thought I should let you know.
This gets the message across, doesn't sound condescending, ensures that your manager doesn't lose face, and also saves you from the awkwardness of "recommending" a font to your superior, because you are putting the decision in his hands. If your manager is a reasonable person, it is hard to imagine him taking offence to this, especially since you offered to first understand his reason rather than just pass judgement. :)
In addition, it also lets you save face if the manager has some genuine reason. For example, if the font was the default on his computer and he hasn't figured out how to change it, or the client "likes" that font!
PS: As David K pointed out in the comment, you might want to keep such an article handy. Make sure that it is from a reputed source, not a random blog, and don't send it to your manager unless he insists.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
8
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
3
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
2
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
1
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
112
down vote
accepted
up vote
112
down vote
accepted
Start by asking your manager if there's a reason why he chose Comic Sans.
Hey John, I noticed that you write your emails in Comic Sans font. Is there some specific reason you picked that font?
Most likely, he would respond with, "no specific reason", "it looked good", "my secretary configured it", etc.
Then continue with this:
I read an interesting article the other day, which said that Comic Sans has a mixed reputation in the business. I wonder what our client thinks about it, perhaps they don't care, but just thought I should let you know.
This gets the message across, doesn't sound condescending, ensures that your manager doesn't lose face, and also saves you from the awkwardness of "recommending" a font to your superior, because you are putting the decision in his hands. If your manager is a reasonable person, it is hard to imagine him taking offence to this, especially since you offered to first understand his reason rather than just pass judgement. :)
In addition, it also lets you save face if the manager has some genuine reason. For example, if the font was the default on his computer and he hasn't figured out how to change it, or the client "likes" that font!
PS: As David K pointed out in the comment, you might want to keep such an article handy. Make sure that it is from a reputed source, not a random blog, and don't send it to your manager unless he insists.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
Start by asking your manager if there's a reason why he chose Comic Sans.
Hey John, I noticed that you write your emails in Comic Sans font. Is there some specific reason you picked that font?
Most likely, he would respond with, "no specific reason", "it looked good", "my secretary configured it", etc.
Then continue with this:
I read an interesting article the other day, which said that Comic Sans has a mixed reputation in the business. I wonder what our client thinks about it, perhaps they don't care, but just thought I should let you know.
This gets the message across, doesn't sound condescending, ensures that your manager doesn't lose face, and also saves you from the awkwardness of "recommending" a font to your superior, because you are putting the decision in his hands. If your manager is a reasonable person, it is hard to imagine him taking offence to this, especially since you offered to first understand his reason rather than just pass judgement. :)
In addition, it also lets you save face if the manager has some genuine reason. For example, if the font was the default on his computer and he hasn't figured out how to change it, or the client "likes" that font!
PS: As David K pointed out in the comment, you might want to keep such an article handy. Make sure that it is from a reputed source, not a random blog, and don't send it to your manager unless he insists.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
edited Aug 5 '15 at 16:08
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
answered Aug 5 '15 at 14:04
Masked Man♦
43.6k25114163
43.6k25114163
8
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
3
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
2
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
1
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
 |Â
show 2 more comments
8
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
3
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
2
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
1
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
8
8
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
It might also be good to find an article which you can link to give you some credibility.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:32
3
3
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
The wording you provide also makes it clear that the font may pose a business problem (reputation), instead of being merely a common opinion or preference. +1
– jpmc26
Aug 6 '15 at 0:32
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
Consider sending just one email though. One danger of splitting the message is that he can't use the information in the second message to influence his answer to the first message. You first ask him to confess he adores the font, and then tell him the entire world thinks otherwise. If you first tell him about the reputation, only then does he have a real chance to save face and, instead of admitting he loves the font, being aloof and blaming it on his secretary :-)
– Konerak
Aug 6 '15 at 7:50
2
2
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
@JoeStrazzere: I don't disagree, but it is a pity these non-confrontational openings are sometimes necessary for bringing up such a trivial matter. If it were me using the font with no idea of its reputation, I'd prefer a direct "Stop using Comic Sans, it's unprofessional," after which we both move on to other things.
– Marcks Thomas
Aug 6 '15 at 19:33
1
1
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
@MarcksThomas I would prefer direct communication too, but I found out over time that the threshold for what offends them is very low for a lot of people. Over time, I have gained increased mastery over this practice of sugarcoating the most mundane things, although it makes me cringe each time I do it. :-)
– Masked Man♦
Aug 7 '15 at 7:22
 |Â
show 2 more comments
up vote
27
down vote
There is a website Comic Sans Criminal, which allows you to sent your boss an anonymous e-mail informing about the inappropriateness of this font. If you do choose an appropriate timing and are not known as a typography expert at work, it should not be relatable to you.
Of course, this at most works for this particular problem and if your boss chooses to switch to Papyrus, you need a different solution. Also, you are probably burning the bridge to bring up this topic in a non-anonymous way, should this approach not work.
Note that I have not tested this service yet and thus do not know whether the mail contains IPs or other identifiable information. Neither do I know what they do with those e-mail adresses. Use at your own risk and better test it with a mail to yourself first.
Finally note that sharing your boss’s email may be or may be considered a breach of rules.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
31
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
1
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
32
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
45
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
2
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
 |Â
show 1 more comment
up vote
27
down vote
There is a website Comic Sans Criminal, which allows you to sent your boss an anonymous e-mail informing about the inappropriateness of this font. If you do choose an appropriate timing and are not known as a typography expert at work, it should not be relatable to you.
Of course, this at most works for this particular problem and if your boss chooses to switch to Papyrus, you need a different solution. Also, you are probably burning the bridge to bring up this topic in a non-anonymous way, should this approach not work.
Note that I have not tested this service yet and thus do not know whether the mail contains IPs or other identifiable information. Neither do I know what they do with those e-mail adresses. Use at your own risk and better test it with a mail to yourself first.
Finally note that sharing your boss’s email may be or may be considered a breach of rules.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
31
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
1
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
32
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
45
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
2
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
 |Â
show 1 more comment
up vote
27
down vote
up vote
27
down vote
There is a website Comic Sans Criminal, which allows you to sent your boss an anonymous e-mail informing about the inappropriateness of this font. If you do choose an appropriate timing and are not known as a typography expert at work, it should not be relatable to you.
Of course, this at most works for this particular problem and if your boss chooses to switch to Papyrus, you need a different solution. Also, you are probably burning the bridge to bring up this topic in a non-anonymous way, should this approach not work.
Note that I have not tested this service yet and thus do not know whether the mail contains IPs or other identifiable information. Neither do I know what they do with those e-mail adresses. Use at your own risk and better test it with a mail to yourself first.
Finally note that sharing your boss’s email may be or may be considered a breach of rules.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
There is a website Comic Sans Criminal, which allows you to sent your boss an anonymous e-mail informing about the inappropriateness of this font. If you do choose an appropriate timing and are not known as a typography expert at work, it should not be relatable to you.
Of course, this at most works for this particular problem and if your boss chooses to switch to Papyrus, you need a different solution. Also, you are probably burning the bridge to bring up this topic in a non-anonymous way, should this approach not work.
Note that I have not tested this service yet and thus do not know whether the mail contains IPs or other identifiable information. Neither do I know what they do with those e-mail adresses. Use at your own risk and better test it with a mail to yourself first.
Finally note that sharing your boss’s email may be or may be considered a breach of rules.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
edited Aug 5 '15 at 14:41
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:54
Temporarily Anonymous
414611
414611
31
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
1
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
32
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
45
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
2
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
 |Â
show 1 more comment
31
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
1
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
32
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
45
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
2
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
31
31
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
Of course, your boss might object to your handing out his email address to any random site on the internet... which is why you should really make sure he doesn't find out it was you.
– Stephan Kolassa
Aug 5 '15 at 14:12
1
1
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
Better make sure you don't word things in a way that can be attributed to you either.
– Panzercrisis
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
32
32
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
I am not so sure it is a good idea to talk to your boss anonymously. This approach might get around this problem, but what about the next time he needs to have an awkward conversation with his boss? Awkward conversations are unavoidable in the workplace, you will run into them sooner or later, especially as you climb up the ladder. It is important to learn how to deal with them directly, than from behind the anonymity of internet.
– Masked Man♦
Aug 5 '15 at 14:17
45
45
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
While amusing and could work with friends and family, I don't think this is an appropriate way to respond in a professional environment.
– David K
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
2
2
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
@MaskedMan Maybe there's a whole range of Fill-in-the-Blank Criminal websites that cater for all your anonymous boss communication needs!
– David Richerby
Aug 6 '15 at 8:45
 |Â
show 1 more comment
up vote
7
down vote
Is there a reason to avoid directly asking the question? If you have regular one-on-one's with your boss, you could ask him about this during one of them (if you aren't having them start!). He may simply be unaware of how a typeface can affect the perception of the message.
I see no need for anonymous communication. This is an opportunity to show you are looking out for the company image and want to help.
You could start with something like:
Can I ask you a question about the font you use in email messages? I think you're using Comic-sans and in my experience it can carry a negative connotation, especially in a business setting. This is an area I'm interested in and I'd be happy to help select a strong font to carry our business message to our customers.
You could also come prepared with the website mentioned @Wrzlprmft's answer. And if you do go the route of wanting to suggest alternatives that are not "Times Roman", come prepared with those too. Bring solutions to the table!
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
1
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
7
down vote
Is there a reason to avoid directly asking the question? If you have regular one-on-one's with your boss, you could ask him about this during one of them (if you aren't having them start!). He may simply be unaware of how a typeface can affect the perception of the message.
I see no need for anonymous communication. This is an opportunity to show you are looking out for the company image and want to help.
You could start with something like:
Can I ask you a question about the font you use in email messages? I think you're using Comic-sans and in my experience it can carry a negative connotation, especially in a business setting. This is an area I'm interested in and I'd be happy to help select a strong font to carry our business message to our customers.
You could also come prepared with the website mentioned @Wrzlprmft's answer. And if you do go the route of wanting to suggest alternatives that are not "Times Roman", come prepared with those too. Bring solutions to the table!
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
1
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
7
down vote
up vote
7
down vote
Is there a reason to avoid directly asking the question? If you have regular one-on-one's with your boss, you could ask him about this during one of them (if you aren't having them start!). He may simply be unaware of how a typeface can affect the perception of the message.
I see no need for anonymous communication. This is an opportunity to show you are looking out for the company image and want to help.
You could start with something like:
Can I ask you a question about the font you use in email messages? I think you're using Comic-sans and in my experience it can carry a negative connotation, especially in a business setting. This is an area I'm interested in and I'd be happy to help select a strong font to carry our business message to our customers.
You could also come prepared with the website mentioned @Wrzlprmft's answer. And if you do go the route of wanting to suggest alternatives that are not "Times Roman", come prepared with those too. Bring solutions to the table!
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
Is there a reason to avoid directly asking the question? If you have regular one-on-one's with your boss, you could ask him about this during one of them (if you aren't having them start!). He may simply be unaware of how a typeface can affect the perception of the message.
I see no need for anonymous communication. This is an opportunity to show you are looking out for the company image and want to help.
You could start with something like:
Can I ask you a question about the font you use in email messages? I think you're using Comic-sans and in my experience it can carry a negative connotation, especially in a business setting. This is an area I'm interested in and I'd be happy to help select a strong font to carry our business message to our customers.
You could also come prepared with the website mentioned @Wrzlprmft's answer. And if you do go the route of wanting to suggest alternatives that are not "Times Roman", come prepared with those too. Bring solutions to the table!
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:59
KenB
720510
720510
1
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
suggest improvements |Â
1
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
1
1
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
As for alternatives: Is there any reason to preconfigure a font for e-mails at all?
– Temporarily Anonymous
Aug 5 '15 at 14:43
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
@Wrzlprmft email font should preferably match the corporate document font because this makes it a lot easdier to copy-paste back and forth. Something neutral like Verdana works fine for both.
– TemplateRex
Aug 6 '15 at 5:30
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
6
down vote
The Approach
- Really the best way to approach your superior about something awkward is either make it a meeting or take them out for lunch. Believe it or not, bosses are people too and they do make mistakes as well. Ask him if you can treat him to a lunch, which will not only help your personal reputation but put him in a setting where he doesn't have his guard up, like most people do at work. If you want to have a meeting, send him an email to schedule something and say you wanted to talk about a few general things that are of concern to you.
The Conversation
- There's nothing better than being blunt. Truly, there are two ways to go about telling him: professionally or comically. Going the professional route would mean explaining to him all the details of why you're concerned and really showing him that you care about this. The comedic route would result in a small joke that he may or may not brush off by the end of the work day. Either way, do whatever you feel more comfortable with. It's perfectly ok to express any concerns you have in the workplace.
What Not To Do
Definitely do not tell him that the font is unprofessional. He will get upset if you insult him. Rather, say that you think that this is petty, but a better font might make the emails look cleaner. Compliment him on his writing or such before you bring this up.
Never start a conversation by saying that what you're about to say is useless or stupid. It seems to be a habit of people to degrade their topic of discussion before saying it so that they don't seem ridiculous. Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
6
down vote
The Approach
- Really the best way to approach your superior about something awkward is either make it a meeting or take them out for lunch. Believe it or not, bosses are people too and they do make mistakes as well. Ask him if you can treat him to a lunch, which will not only help your personal reputation but put him in a setting where he doesn't have his guard up, like most people do at work. If you want to have a meeting, send him an email to schedule something and say you wanted to talk about a few general things that are of concern to you.
The Conversation
- There's nothing better than being blunt. Truly, there are two ways to go about telling him: professionally or comically. Going the professional route would mean explaining to him all the details of why you're concerned and really showing him that you care about this. The comedic route would result in a small joke that he may or may not brush off by the end of the work day. Either way, do whatever you feel more comfortable with. It's perfectly ok to express any concerns you have in the workplace.
What Not To Do
Definitely do not tell him that the font is unprofessional. He will get upset if you insult him. Rather, say that you think that this is petty, but a better font might make the emails look cleaner. Compliment him on his writing or such before you bring this up.
Never start a conversation by saying that what you're about to say is useless or stupid. It seems to be a habit of people to degrade their topic of discussion before saying it so that they don't seem ridiculous. Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
6
down vote
up vote
6
down vote
The Approach
- Really the best way to approach your superior about something awkward is either make it a meeting or take them out for lunch. Believe it or not, bosses are people too and they do make mistakes as well. Ask him if you can treat him to a lunch, which will not only help your personal reputation but put him in a setting where he doesn't have his guard up, like most people do at work. If you want to have a meeting, send him an email to schedule something and say you wanted to talk about a few general things that are of concern to you.
The Conversation
- There's nothing better than being blunt. Truly, there are two ways to go about telling him: professionally or comically. Going the professional route would mean explaining to him all the details of why you're concerned and really showing him that you care about this. The comedic route would result in a small joke that he may or may not brush off by the end of the work day. Either way, do whatever you feel more comfortable with. It's perfectly ok to express any concerns you have in the workplace.
What Not To Do
Definitely do not tell him that the font is unprofessional. He will get upset if you insult him. Rather, say that you think that this is petty, but a better font might make the emails look cleaner. Compliment him on his writing or such before you bring this up.
Never start a conversation by saying that what you're about to say is useless or stupid. It seems to be a habit of people to degrade their topic of discussion before saying it so that they don't seem ridiculous. Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
The Approach
- Really the best way to approach your superior about something awkward is either make it a meeting or take them out for lunch. Believe it or not, bosses are people too and they do make mistakes as well. Ask him if you can treat him to a lunch, which will not only help your personal reputation but put him in a setting where he doesn't have his guard up, like most people do at work. If you want to have a meeting, send him an email to schedule something and say you wanted to talk about a few general things that are of concern to you.
The Conversation
- There's nothing better than being blunt. Truly, there are two ways to go about telling him: professionally or comically. Going the professional route would mean explaining to him all the details of why you're concerned and really showing him that you care about this. The comedic route would result in a small joke that he may or may not brush off by the end of the work day. Either way, do whatever you feel more comfortable with. It's perfectly ok to express any concerns you have in the workplace.
What Not To Do
Definitely do not tell him that the font is unprofessional. He will get upset if you insult him. Rather, say that you think that this is petty, but a better font might make the emails look cleaner. Compliment him on his writing or such before you bring this up.
Never start a conversation by saying that what you're about to say is useless or stupid. It seems to be a habit of people to degrade their topic of discussion before saying it so that they don't seem ridiculous. Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic.
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
answered Aug 5 '15 at 13:58
Leah
557211
557211
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
suggest improvements |Â
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
I'm having difficulty reconciling "say that you think that this is petty" with "Make sure it is known that you really care about this topic". Can you clarify?
– ruakh
Aug 7 '15 at 6:28
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up vote
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I would tend to avoid some of the the possibly over-cautious approach of these answers. Of course, subtlety and wit is very important in a corporate environment, and naturally your job is something you want to be very careful with - but brevity is the soul of wit and he/she will appreciate your honesty.
Think of it this way, he's making a mistake - and he's unaware of it. One can either tell him, risking animosity over negative feedback, or leave him to keep making that mistake and make a fool of himself. He's (hopefully) not a tactless moron and he'll appreciate your courage to step in and try and help him out.
It's very important that you exercise compassionate speech and comradery in a situation like this, adhering strongly to the principle of "constructive criticism". So long as you can stay away from patronizing him or treating him with disrespect he'll probably be very grateful that you decided to inform him.
If it were me I'd find a time where we were both together under immediate pressure, and say something like
Hey, I'd been meaning to talk to you actually.
I'm a little concerned that a lot of people don't see the font you use in your emails as being appropriate for corporate communication - there's a general consensus that it's a kind of silly font. While I don't think any of us are in any way offended, this idea is pretty widespread and I'm just concious that you mightn't know of this. If you'd like I'd be interested in helping pick a font to better represent our business ...
It might seem childish or blunt to some, but in my own experiences I've found that simple honesty rarely goes amiss - speak your mind in a respectful manner at an appropriate time and there's very little to go wrong :) Good luck!
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
2
down vote
I would tend to avoid some of the the possibly over-cautious approach of these answers. Of course, subtlety and wit is very important in a corporate environment, and naturally your job is something you want to be very careful with - but brevity is the soul of wit and he/she will appreciate your honesty.
Think of it this way, he's making a mistake - and he's unaware of it. One can either tell him, risking animosity over negative feedback, or leave him to keep making that mistake and make a fool of himself. He's (hopefully) not a tactless moron and he'll appreciate your courage to step in and try and help him out.
It's very important that you exercise compassionate speech and comradery in a situation like this, adhering strongly to the principle of "constructive criticism". So long as you can stay away from patronizing him or treating him with disrespect he'll probably be very grateful that you decided to inform him.
If it were me I'd find a time where we were both together under immediate pressure, and say something like
Hey, I'd been meaning to talk to you actually.
I'm a little concerned that a lot of people don't see the font you use in your emails as being appropriate for corporate communication - there's a general consensus that it's a kind of silly font. While I don't think any of us are in any way offended, this idea is pretty widespread and I'm just concious that you mightn't know of this. If you'd like I'd be interested in helping pick a font to better represent our business ...
It might seem childish or blunt to some, but in my own experiences I've found that simple honesty rarely goes amiss - speak your mind in a respectful manner at an appropriate time and there's very little to go wrong :) Good luck!
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
suggest improvements |Â
up vote
2
down vote
up vote
2
down vote
I would tend to avoid some of the the possibly over-cautious approach of these answers. Of course, subtlety and wit is very important in a corporate environment, and naturally your job is something you want to be very careful with - but brevity is the soul of wit and he/she will appreciate your honesty.
Think of it this way, he's making a mistake - and he's unaware of it. One can either tell him, risking animosity over negative feedback, or leave him to keep making that mistake and make a fool of himself. He's (hopefully) not a tactless moron and he'll appreciate your courage to step in and try and help him out.
It's very important that you exercise compassionate speech and comradery in a situation like this, adhering strongly to the principle of "constructive criticism". So long as you can stay away from patronizing him or treating him with disrespect he'll probably be very grateful that you decided to inform him.
If it were me I'd find a time where we were both together under immediate pressure, and say something like
Hey, I'd been meaning to talk to you actually.
I'm a little concerned that a lot of people don't see the font you use in your emails as being appropriate for corporate communication - there's a general consensus that it's a kind of silly font. While I don't think any of us are in any way offended, this idea is pretty widespread and I'm just concious that you mightn't know of this. If you'd like I'd be interested in helping pick a font to better represent our business ...
It might seem childish or blunt to some, but in my own experiences I've found that simple honesty rarely goes amiss - speak your mind in a respectful manner at an appropriate time and there's very little to go wrong :) Good luck!
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
I would tend to avoid some of the the possibly over-cautious approach of these answers. Of course, subtlety and wit is very important in a corporate environment, and naturally your job is something you want to be very careful with - but brevity is the soul of wit and he/she will appreciate your honesty.
Think of it this way, he's making a mistake - and he's unaware of it. One can either tell him, risking animosity over negative feedback, or leave him to keep making that mistake and make a fool of himself. He's (hopefully) not a tactless moron and he'll appreciate your courage to step in and try and help him out.
It's very important that you exercise compassionate speech and comradery in a situation like this, adhering strongly to the principle of "constructive criticism". So long as you can stay away from patronizing him or treating him with disrespect he'll probably be very grateful that you decided to inform him.
If it were me I'd find a time where we were both together under immediate pressure, and say something like
Hey, I'd been meaning to talk to you actually.
I'm a little concerned that a lot of people don't see the font you use in your emails as being appropriate for corporate communication - there's a general consensus that it's a kind of silly font. While I don't think any of us are in any way offended, this idea is pretty widespread and I'm just concious that you mightn't know of this. If you'd like I'd be interested in helping pick a font to better represent our business ...
It might seem childish or blunt to some, but in my own experiences I've found that simple honesty rarely goes amiss - speak your mind in a respectful manner at an appropriate time and there's very little to go wrong :) Good luck!
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
answered Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
Tadgh
211
211
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
suggest improvements |Â
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
I think telling the boss he is doing a silly thing straightforward is not a smart thing to do.
– scaaahu
Aug 6 '15 at 9:52
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
In the end it will come down to who the boss is, who the other party is, and their relationship. I don't deny that there are people out there who would take that badly - but if the boss in question is a stable, grounded, man or woman, then honesty is always as sensible path.
– Tadgh
Aug 6 '15 at 10:25
suggest improvements |Â
protected by Community♦ Aug 6 '15 at 9:26
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24
The top answer to What is wrong with Comic Sans? on the graphic design site is written with remarkable restraint. Unlike most things written on Comic Sans it is pretty non-offensive, while still getting the point across
– user568458
Aug 5 '15 at 14:30
5
To answer the question title specifically, You don't. You can try all of the suggested answers below to convince him to change his ways on his own, but in a corporate setting, you cannot force your boss to do anything he doesn't want to - and if he wants to use Comic Sans and will not be convinced to change his font type, you should not risk losing your own job over it.
– Zibbobz
Aug 5 '15 at 15:00
4
Why do you think that 1) Everyone who gets the email sees what font it was composed in, rather than the font they prefer to read? and 2) Of those who do see the email in its original font, what percentage do you think actually cares? Oh, and #3: Why on earth do people use anything but ASCII text in email, anyway?
– jamesqf
Aug 5 '15 at 17:37
3
I started to laugh, but then remembered the time when a student said she couldn't take my business class seriously because I used Comic Sans for a font. (For the record, it was Apple's Chalkboard, but still...)
– Dave Kanter
Aug 5 '15 at 22:21
7
Just as an aside, it's interesting how country cultures can differ. In a country like the Netherlands it would be a total non issue to casually mention something like this to your boss and it will be seen as a sign that you actually care. A reaction like "you should feel awkward bringing it up" is nearly impossible to imagine over there.
– David Mulder
Aug 6 '15 at 2:35