Non-capitalized topic traces, an improper greeting, using “LOL” or another type of Web/textual content message slang, emoticons, lack of punctuation, attachments with no content material within the e mail physique, and mass marketing emails that attempt to be private however fall flat.
OK, I’ve been responsible of doing all the above a couple of times, however 99.9 p.c of the time I keep away from making these errors that might lead my colleagues to consider I’m both lazy or simply plain uneducated. Whereas I’ve been working with the identical individuals for greater than a 12 months now, I’m nonetheless fairly low on the totem pole and may present my true professionalism at each alternative.
So why do I get emails from colleagues positioned beneath and above me, or from individuals whom I’ve by no means met, that say “Hey – right here you go” or “Thanks instances a billion gajillion ? ? :).” I could also be mistaken, however the final time I checked “gajillion” wasn’t a phrase. And following using a faux phrase with a sequence of emoticons is simply embarrassing, for you and me.
I’m beginning to suppose that expertise is making it too straightforward for us Millenials to overlook we’re certainly working professionals. Simply because it’s OK to textual content a pal saying, “Hey woman, see ya in an hour,” doesn’t imply that’s additionally a great way to remind your consumer that you’ll meet them for espresso later.
Listed here are just a few guidelines I be mindful when sending emails to colleagues:
- Write a subject line that truly pertains to the content material of the e-mail.
- Embrace a greeting. The reader’s title adopted by a comma is ok and “Hello [reader’s name],” is appropriate for a extra pleasant tone.
- Maintain the physique content material brief and concise.
- When doubtful, use “Thanks, [your name]” or “Finest, [your name]” to finish your e mail. Merely leaving your e mail signature as a stand-alone log out might be seen as unfriendly.
- Earlier than sending, read the email as if you’d received it. Delete any content material that might be seen as impolite or abrupt, even when that’s not your intent.
- Remember while you “reply all”. Does everybody on the chain have to learn your response?
- Keep in mind that writing in all-caps is seen as yelling. In case your e mail is vital, use the high-priority button.
- By no means, ever use Web/textual content slang or an emoticon. It’s like begging for somebody to think about you as an uneducated, technology-consumed Millennial.
What do you suppose? Are my guidelines on level or too strict? In case you have e mail pet-peeves, tell us!
