Marking your e-mail as “urgent” doesn’t mean it’ll get read. With everything that ends up in your colleagues’ inboxes these days, it’s more important than ever to write clearer, more concise e-mails.
The key to getting your e-mails read: simplicity.
Here are four ways to get it done:
- Sum it up in the subject. Providing a summary of the e-mail message in the subject line is a proven way ensure your message gets read.
- Keep it short. If you can’t summarize the message in a few sentences, it may be worthwhile to pick up a phone. It’s vital that staffers understand exactly what the e-mail is asking of them.
- Keep it clear. Stay away from any jargon or acronyms (regardless of how commonplace) just to be safe. Clear language is always the most effective kind.
- Stay consistent. Whether you start by addressing the e-mail’s recipient as “you” or as “employee,” it’s important to stay consistent with your point of view throughout the message.
For more tips on writing simpler e-mails, click here.