Writing a Professional Email

Although emails are generally perceived as being less formal than letters and other business correspondences, an email written in the context of business and work should still render a professional and polished representation of  its sender. Here are some tips to help you compose an effective business email:

• Subject line: The subject line should not be left blank, but should fulfill its intended purpose to tell the nature of the email.  Use simple yet specific, essential details that grab the reader’s attention and orient the recipient to what is most important.  For example, the subject line might indicate the date, time, and location of an upcoming appointment or meeting.
• Body information:  The information contained in the body of the email should reflect good writing standards, so please avoid misspellings, typos, and errors in grammar and punctuation.  Separate topics and points of interest  into clear paragraphs, and feel free to use bullets.  This way, your message will be understood accurately and important information will not get overlooked.
• Writing style:  Your writing style should be concise, clear, professional, and to the point.  Proofread your email several times to catch errors before you hit send.

When you receive a business email, respond as soon as possible, or, if time is needed on your end, simply acknowledge receipt and mention that your reply will be forthcoming.

Christa Riddle, All About Writing, Howell, NJ, www.allaboutwritingconsulting.com