How to say "I told you so" professionally

It is one of the most frustrating moments in corporate life. You warned a client or a manager about a risk. They ignored you. Now, exactly what you predicted has happened, and they are panicking.

The temptation to say "I told you this would happen" is overwhelming. But in a professional setting, gloating damages relationships. The goal isn't to be right; the goal is to fix the problem while gently reminding them that your advice is valuable.

The Golden Rule: Reference, Don't Accuse

Instead of making it about their failure to listen, make it about the documentation that already exists. This shifts the focus from "You were wrong" to "Here is the context."

Why "Per my last email" is dangerous

The phrase "Per my last email" has become a meme for workplace passive-aggression. While it is technically polite, the subtext is often read as hostility.

If you want to maintain a good relationship, try softening the blow by pivoting immediately to the solution.

Try this formula:
[Gentle Reference to Warning] + [Current Status] + [Proposed Solution]

"Returning to the potential risks we identified in the planning phase, it appears the server load issue has materialized. To resolve this quickly, I suggest we..."

Still angry? Let AI handle it.

If you are too frustrated to write a calm email, don't risk your reputation. Type your angry thoughts into our tool, and let us translate it into "Corporate Safe" language for you.