Professional email communication is fundamental in business. Please consider the following guidelines:

1. Copy others

Copy the tone of the people you are corresponding with.  For instance, if they use emojis, you can also do that.

If you are in doubt, however, it’s always best to be formal rather than casual.

2. Make your point—and keep it brief

If your email is a reply, the first item should be a thank you line, such as “Thanks for contacting us last week.” If not, begin by stating your purpose, as in “I’m writing about…”

Keep your sentences and paragraphs short for better understanding and as a sign of respect to the recipient (no one has time to waste!). If you need to enlarge on the subject, include an attachment.

3. Follow up

To ensure your requests are answered on time, state clear deadlines and follow up if they are not responded.

4. Magic words

Lastly, remember the magic word “please” when you ask for something and “thanks” at the end of every email.

By the way, thanks for reading this post!

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