Given the number of emails you send every day, you should be an email-writing expert, right? In case not, here are a few tips for effective messaging:
- Ask for something. All business writing includes a call to action. Before you write your email, know what you’re asking of your audience.
- Say it up front. Don’t bury the purpose of your email in the last paragraph. Include important information in the subject line and opening sentence.
- Explain. Don’t assume your reader knows anything. Provide all pertinent background information and avoid elusive references.
- Tell them what you think. Don’t use the dreaded “Your thoughts?” without explaining your own. Express your opinion before asking your reader to do the same.
Source: Management Tip of the Day, Harvard Business Publishing