Our training in business writing continues to be in demand. In an age of texting – when shortcuts, emojis and fragments abound – clean, crisp writing sets you apart.
We teach clients how to format an email that’s brief and meaningful. These five questions guide them:
1. Who Is the Email Intended For?
Do the recipients know who they are? Are people cc’ed for good reason or are people being needlessly dragged in?
2. What Is Being Asked of Them?
Does it feel like a hazy idea or a half-baked suggestion? Or is there a clear call to action?
3. Why Is It Being Asked?
Do you provide a compelling reason to do the requested work? Is it the right amount of context without going into the weeds?
4. By When?
Do they understand when the work is due? Is it loosely proposed or identified specifically – including not just the date but also the weekday as a helpful calendar marker? Is it EOD? To be brought to a meeting? To be circulated beforehand?
5. Is Everything Relevant?
Did you veer into a related topic that doesn’t need to be included? Can you cut a paragraph to help your readers focus on the most essential message?
Sharing the right amount of information – not too much and not too little – is an art. You can always offer to share additional background if requested. That shows your willingness to help while allowing you to keep it brief.
Every word counts in an effective email – from the subject line to the closing. Format counts too. Breaking up a paragraph, bolding a key line or inserting a few bullet points can make your email much more readable.
We’ll break down all these tips and more when we coach you. Make your email sparkle in 2025!