If you have to ask the question, you’re already on your heels. Ben Decker, CEO of Decker Communications, a provider of training for more effective communications, offers these tips for making email messages more effective.
1. BLUF.
That’s right — get that Bottom Line Up Front. Don’t start with a long preamble. Instead, cut to the chase. Then elaborate. Think like a journalist — don’t bury the lead.
2. Share your personality.
Add a touch of casual, so that when people read it, they feel like they are talking to you.
3. Apply the SHARPs principles.
Stories, humor, analogies, references/quotes and pictures/visuals. Emotion goes a long way in emails. Don’t save the SHARP for in-person if it can be included in your email.
4. Use the subject line to get their attention.
This tip is often stated, but rarely followed. Do you include due dates in your subject line? Action required? Do you change the subject line when the email thread veers into another direction? Keep it brief and to the point.
5. Check for typos.
If your email screams out, “Don’t shivagit,” chances are, your reader won’t either. Your email is an extension of you and your brand.
