1. Email Etiquette Rules Every Professional Should Know

2. Emails are easy to use and it’s easy to see why email is the preferred form of communication today. Smart phones allow us to send and receive messages from anywhere at anytime. It’s convenient, and you don’t have to fear interrupting someone like you might when making phone calls. This convenience can lead people to make embarrassing mistakes. Even to the point of coming off as too casual or unprofessional in tone or content.

3. 1. Include a clear, direct subject line Examples: Meeting date and time confirmation Introducing New Products Introducing a New Program People decide whether to open an email based on the subject. Choose one that lets readers know you are addressing their concerns or issues.

4. 2. Use a Professional Email Address If you use a personal email because you are self-employed choose your address carefully. It should convey your name so the recipient knows who’s sending the email. DO NOT USE inappropriate words for the work place such as: diva @ or babydoll @ or mother of twins @

5. 3. Think twice before hitting “reply all” No one wants to read emails from 20 people when it has nothing to do with them. Only hit ‘reply all’ when everyone in the email needs the responses from all included.

6. Use exclamation points sparingly. If you choose to use an exclamation point, use it only to convey excitement. Too many exclamation points can appear too emotional or immature.

7. Be cautious with humor Humor can easily get lost in translation without the right tone or seeing facial expressions. In professional communications, better to leave it out unless you the know the recipient VERY well and are sure the email won’t be sent on.

8. Proof your Message Always, always proof your message so there aren’t any jarring mistakes. Another quick tip – add email addresses last so the email doesn’t get sent before you are finished.