1. Writing Professional Emails
Created by: Cheryl Radeloff and Sarah Sifers
Funded by: Minnesota State University, Mankato College of Social and Behavioral Sciences

2. Subject Line Always include a subject Be specific as possible
Include class and section
Examples
Re: Abnormal Psych Assignment
Re: Intro to Women’s Studies Section 01

3. Salutations Include a salutation
Doctor or Professor unless told otherwise
Avoid “Mrs.”
Avoid slang
Examples
Dear Dr. Radeloff:
Prof. Sifers,
NOT Hey Sarah

4. Addressing Emails Only include relevant people
Be careful with “reply to all”
Check to make sure the addresses are correct

5. Body of an Email Include an introduction
Use appropriate grammar and mechanics
Use active voice
Use paragraphs
Avoid all caps
Use a professional tone
Be concise
Use gender neutral language
Avoid possibly offensive comments
Avoid unnecessary attachments
Limit use of “urgent,” “important,” and “high priority”

6. Email Address Think about what your address suggests Examples:
NOT

7. Wide Audience Emails & Spam
Avoid
Spam
Chain letters
“Warnings”
Do not forward confidential information from others

8. Additional Resources http://www.library.yale.edu/training/netiquette/