Make no mistake about it—An e-mail mistake is a big mistake.
Your professional credibility is on the line when you send e-mails. A well-written e-mail shows that you are detailed oriented, credible, and considerate.
Your first impression is your e-mail address. Sexy_kitty@ Blank.com is great to get a date but is lack luster in the professional scene. Stick to an address that only includes your first and last name.
Have a goal for what your e-mail should accomplish. Do you want a question answered, action taken, or a reply? The goal should be obvious within the first two paragraphs of the e-mail.
A great professional e-mail will display good manners. It is a good idea to offer something if you are asking for something. A good example would be, “to offer an interesting article to a professional before you ask for his or her time,” according to Ryan Kahn, owner of The Hired Group.
Ask fewer questions in more effective ways. Make your questions easy to answer and very specific. Refrain from asking questions that require multiple answers. Consider an alternative form of communication for questions that require long answers.
Your email needs to have good formatting and punctuation. Make sure that the font size is easily readable. Proof read your e-mail for spelling and grammar errors. Keep paragraphs to three or four sentences so they can be read with ease. New paragraphs do not need to be indented.
An effective e-mail will look similar to this:
To: Donald.Smith@Gmail.com
From: Jenny.Lee@Gmail.com
Subject: I would love to network with you
Dear Donald Smith;
My name is Jenny Lee. I am a student and was given your name from a friend, John Williams. He has a lot of great things to say about you.
I am interested in your accomplishments and would like to know more about you. I know that you have accomplished a lot in the world of business and thought you might like this article (article URL here.)
Thank you for taking the time to read this e-mail. If you are available, I would like to talk with you Monday at 10 AM. Does that work for you?
Thank You,
Jenny Lee
Author Bio: Jordon Tuttle is a student at BYU with a vision to contribute to the growth of individuals and companies.
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