We often discuss Email Best Practices in my Business Writing Workshops. Here are some recurring themes:
- Always have something useful in the subject line so busy readers can evaluate if and when to read it just by seeing it in their inbox.
- Assume every email you send will be printed, kept forever and framed over the desk of the person you sent it to. Therefore, make sure the content, writing style and appearance reflect your professionalism and competency.
- Proofread everything well beyond spell check, as we’ve all been burned by spell check before.
- When forwarding or replying, eliminate all the unnecessary non-message stuff that just creates clutter.
While you may think you don’t have the time to do it right the first time, you’ll probably have to find the time to do it over if it doesn’t work or backfires. These tips should help you.