Write Better: E-Mails

What's in it for me?

You have to know why you are writing the e-mail in the first place. What are you offering? How is your e-mail going to help this other person? What are you trying to get out of it and, in return, what are you willing to give to them? Every e-mail must have a purpose. Take a little time to think about what you want and how your e-mail is going to further that goal.

Look over here!

The subject of an e-mail is everything. Don't use anything generic. Instead, think of it as a book or blog title. You want something eye-catching. You want your reader to immediately click on your e-mail - you want them to read more. Avoid subject lines that sound like spam. If I don't know the person, and the subject e-mail sounds weird, there is a good chance I'll delete the e-mail without opening it.

I'm not reading that.

There is nothing worse than a long e-mail. I know many people who delete long e-mails that show up in their inbox without even reading them. Know what you're going to say, and keep it simple. Get to the point!

Did you spell that right?

Spelling or grammar mistakes in an e-mail can make you look unprofessional. Make sure you read over your e-mail before you send it. There is nothing worse than sending a mass e-mail out to your coworkers before realizing you spelled someone's name wrong. Not good.

What's your number?

Is an e-mail really the best way to get your point across? Sometimes it helps to talk to that person face to face, especially if it's a personal issue. Other times a quick phone call can answer your question instead of sending another e-mail to an already-full inbox. If you're saying thank you after an interview or after receiving a gift, consider handwriting a thank you note instead.


Are you good at sending e-mails? What are some things you need more help with? What are some things you're good at? Let me know in the comments below!

Need some more writing tips? Check out this post.