Email is where most workplace reputations are made quietly.
Direct answer
Write a clear subject line, lead with your main point, keep it short, be polite, check names and attachments, avoid unnecessary reply-all and end with a clear next step. Re-read before sending.
12 rules
- Write a specific subject line.
- Greet the person by name.
- Put the point in the first line.
- Keep paragraphs short.
- Use bullets for lists.
- Be polite, not wordy.
- Check tone, since writing can sound colder than intended.
- Attach files you mention.
- Use reply-all sparingly.
- Do not write angry emails. Wait.
- End with a clear ask and date.
- Proofread.
Before and after
Before: "Hi, any update?" After: "Hi Sam, could you share the draft by Thursday 3pm so I can review it before Friday's meeting?"
Where Teyro fits
Teyro's Clear Writing at Work course turns this into short lessons you can play in a few minutes a day. It has 50 lessons, and you can start free.
The bottom line
Clear, kind, short.
