It's important to know how to express yourself both formally and informally at work. That's because if you are in formal situations and you use informal expressions, you may appear unprofessional. However, on the other side, if you use formal expressions in informal and relaxed environments, you may build an invisible wall between you and your colleagues. 

In most cases, people are understanding if you use the wrong level of formality however, it's good practice to get comfortable using the right ones. 

Let's have a look at 10 variations of the same statement:

Asking for an update 

Formal: Could you provide me with an update on the project?
Informal: Any updates on the project?

Requesting a report from someone else

Formal: I would appreciate it if you could send me the report by tomorrow.
Informal: Can you send me the report by tomorrow?

Declining an offer

Formal: I regret to inform you that we are unable to proceed with the request.
Informal: Sorry, we can’t go ahead with that.

Writing an email

Formal: I look forward to hearing from you.
Informal: Hope to hear from you soon.

Requesting a meeting

Formal: We would like to request a meeting at your earliest convenience.
Informal: Can we set up a meeting when you're free?

Letting someone else know that they can contact you for more information

Formal: Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need any further assistance.
Informal: Let me know if you need anything.

Thanking someone when writing an application/proposal

Formal: Thank you for your consideration.
Informal: Thanks for thinking about it.

Stating the importance of completing a task before a deadline

Formal: It is necessary to complete the task by the deadline.
Informal: You need to finish this by the deadline.

Asking for clarification 

Formal: I would be grateful if you could clarify the following points.
Informal: Can you explain these points?

Letting someone know that an event has been cancelled

Formal: I am writing to inform you that the event has been postponed.
Informal: Just letting you know the event’s been delayed.

I hope these phrases can help you to sound more natural and appropriate at work.

Claire