Communicating with people in the right manner — displaying adequate empathy at all times, and concern when required — has become all the more important these days, and this applies not just to interpersonal relationships in the societal sphere, but also in professional circles. Anxiety levels are sky-high. Employees and clients across the board are faced with an uncertain future. And thus even displaying a small level of understanding can go a long way at a time when allaying people's fears is not just a professional responsibility, but a humanitarian one.

But the first step one has to take is to address the fact that we are indeed in the midst of unprecedented times. "It's like addressing the elephant in the room," says life coach Nidhika Bahl, adding, "You can't negate the situation, and it's important to convey a sense that we are all in this together." That's why, when writing official emails, it might be a good idea sometimes to incorporate lines like, "I am sure you are dealing with a lot right now." It's also advisable to display gratitude in your correspondences when, for example, a client is giving you new business despite the tough times. And Bahl says that instead of a generic sign-off like "best wishes" or "yours sincerely", end your emails with a line that instils both concern and positivity, such as "stay safe, stay strong".