Friday, March 20, 2015

Write Business Emails

Writing business emails has become a necessity in our quick-paced business world. Although it is not difficult to write business emails, a professional approach is required. Business emails should meet both business etiquette standards and email writing standards.


Instructions


1. Follow company standards. Each company has slightly different standards when it comes to writing business emails. Some companies write casually and some have strict procedures. Stick to the standards to avoid misrepresenting your company and avoid conflicts with your boss.


2. Use a clear email subject line. If you want a business colleague or client to open your email, use a clear email subject line. Your business associates and clients probably receive dozens of emails a day; make your email subject stand out with relevant details.


3. Address your business associate appropriately. If you are writing to a coworker with whom you are on friendly terms, it is acceptable to address her by her first name. If you are writing to a customer or superior in the company with whom you have a formal relationship, start the email with "Dear" or "Hello" and include the recipient's full name.


4. Use proper grammar and spelling. You wouldn't send a letter out without proofreading it. Take the same care with emails. To communicate professionally, use proper grammar and run spell check before sending an email. Use proper sentence structure and break ideas into paragraphs.


5. Don't use Internet slang, even though it is everywhere. In a business email, use full sentences and write out words completely. While there are some exceptions, especially if your business is in high tech, you are better off being safe than writing an abbreviation that your business contact might not understand or take as being rude.


6. Use a standard email signature. Use a company template or create an email signature that concludes all your business emails. The signature should include your full name, job title, company name and contact information. You can be a little creative, but do not overdo the signature by including large text images or inappropriate personal quotes.


7. Include any business disclaimers that your company recommends. If you do not include a disclaimer, you could cause yourself or your company legal problems.

Tags: business emails, email subject, your business, your company, clear email, clear email subject