Email etiquette is one of those seemingly insignificant aspects of professionalism that can often be overlooked. Face-to-face interactions such as interviews, presentations, or networking events tend to be more heavily emphasized for improving communication or leadership skills, but how you communicate via email is arguably just as important and impactful. Emails are long-lasting and can be referenced indefinitely, so knowing how you come across to others in writing can be vital for setting the course for your professional future.
Ask Yourself These Questions to Start Emailing Like a Pro
If you’ve never thought twice about the emails you send, now is the time to evaluate yourself – here are some questions to ask.
Are My Greetings Warm?
It can be easy to jump straight into the main focus of your email without using a greeting but failing to include one can alter the tone of your entire message. Being too casual or failing to address the recipient altogether can send the wrong signal, so start with a sincere greeting to ensure the rest of your message is received positively.
Am I CC-ing Too Many People?
Before you CC a large group of individuals in hopes of covering all your bases, ask yourself who truly needs to see the email. It can be tempting to think it’s better to over-include others than to accidentally leave someone out, but when applied too broadly, that approach can clutter inboxes and compromise others’ privacy. Be cautious and intentional about who genuinely needs to receive an email.
Do I Apologize Too Often?
If you’re a people pleaser, it can be tempting to assume you’re bothering someone and immediately start off your emails with an apology. Strive to avoid apologizing for following up on a question, asking for clarification, or checking in on a deadline. Confidence is key to effective communication – you’ll appear less passive and more professional as you adopt a pattern of self-assuredness.
Before you write your next email, consider how you can improve your virtual communication skills. Being warm, confident, and considerate of others’ inboxes can have a massive impact on how you are perceived, so be open to adjusting your go-to email process the next time you draft a message.
