3 Extra Tricks to Spruce Up Your Business Emails (Part 2)

Those in business know that sending emails is one of the most delicate aspects of professional communication.

Write a good email, and you may be rewarded with things like a raise, job interview, or partnership. Write a bad one, and you might confuse, mislead, or anger the reader.

Keep these 3 tips in mind to increase your chances of successful online correspondence.

Tip #1: Make each paragraph short

In an essay, paragraphs are often around 5-7 sentences, but the rules are a little different for emails. The best practice is to limit email paragraphs to 3-4 sentences. If you go on too long, the reader might get frustrated and have trouble locating the main ideas of the message.

Perfect length:

It was a pleasure to speak with you over the phone. I am excited about the opportunity and looking forward to working together. Please let me know if I can provide any additional information. Thanks!

Tip #2: Carefully consider the subject line

The subject line determines whether the recipient opens the email or just lets it sit in their inbox. They are especially important for cold opens in which you are making first contact with a potential customer or client. Make your subject concise, relevant, and informative to let the recipient know exactly what the message concerns.

Subject examples:

• A quick question
• Update on XX
• Receipt for order
• Meeting schedule
• New product offer
• Application follow-up
  

Tip #3: Use proper attachment etiquette

It’s very common to add an attachment when sending an email.

You may need the recipient to look at a document, sign a contract, or even watch a video. However, they won’t know what the attachment is or what they have to do with it unless you tell them.

To remedy this, simply acknowledge the attachment and describe what should be done in the body text section.

Also, don’t forget to actually attach it!

PS: You can read part 1 here.