Unit 9: Email etiquette

Subject line: describe what the email is about in a few words. Email greeting: Mention the recipient's name and add a proper greeting. Body: Write the main message and one ask. Signature: Include your name, surname, company name, and sign-off.

Assuming you mean business email etiquette:

1. Use a professional sounding email address.

This is the first impression your recipient will get of you, so make sure it’s a good one. If you have a common name, consider using your initials or a middle name to make your email address more unique. And avoid using cutesy nicknames or anything that could be perceived as unprofessional.

2. Use a clear and concise subject line.

Your subject line should be specific and to the point. This way, your recipient will know exactly what the email is about and can prioritize accordingly. And if you’re replying to an email, make sure to include the original subject line in your response so the thread can be easily followed.

3. Keep your message short and sweet.

If your email is more than a few paragraphs, chances are the recipient won’t even bother reading it. So be clear and concise in your writing, and get to the point quickly.

4. Use proper grammar and punctuation.

This should go without saying, but unfortunately it’s all too common to see emails with typos and poor grammar. So take the time to proofread your message before hitting send, or else you risk coming across as unprofessional.

5. Don’t forget to attach files.

If you’re supposed to be sending a file along with your email, make sure to actually attach it before hitting send. Nothing is more frustrating than receiving an email saying “see attached” only to find that there is no attachment.

6. Use a professional signature.

Your signature should include your name, job title, company name, and contact information. This way, the recipient will have all the information they need to get in touch with you. And if you’re emailing someone outside of your company, be sure to add a nice closing line like “thank you for your time.”