✨ Commas: The Tiny Pause That Makes a Big Difference at Work

For many ESL professionals, commas feel optional—or even intimidating. But in business writing, a single comma can shape your tone, your message, and your credibility.

Let’s break it down.

👀 How a missing comma changes meaning:

❌ Let’s call in sick managers.

✅ Let’s call in sick, managers.

 (One needs HR. The other needs rest.)

❌ No Sam didn’t reply.

✅ No, Sam didn’t reply.

(Without the pause, it’s unclear—and a bit tense.)

✍️ Use commas when you want to:

1. List clearly

   ✅ We hired a designer, developer, and editor.

   
   

2. Set context

   ✅ After the update, we’ll test again.

   
   

3. Sound human ✅ Hi Maria, just checking in.

💡 Tip: If you naturally pause when saying it aloud, a comma probably belongs there.

Using commas clearly in speech = clear intention. Especially in global teams.

In fact, 43% of business leaders say their company has gained new business specifically because of effective communication. (Source: Grammarly Business & The Harris Poll)

Want that kind of clarity (and confidence) at work?

🌐 At Aurum Borealis, we help ESL professionals write and speak with confidence. You are your own best brand. We help you own it. 

👉 www.AurumBorealis.com where international projects come to life.