#161: Write Better Emails in English (and Avoid Common Email Mistakes)

Jan 15, 2020 | Business Professional English

This lesson has been updated from its original version published in August 2016.

I know writing emails in English can be stressful — but they don’t have to be. You can use the right language, follow the right rules, and make it easy for your readers to understand you.

That’s what this lesson is all about.

How to write better emails in English and avoid common email mistakes so you can communicate effectively. 

Write Better Emails in English & Avoid Common Mistakes

Lesson Summary:

Follow these 5 basic tips for clear, effective communication in English.

Plus, get my favorite way to make sure your grammar, spelling, and punctuation are correct!

 

TIP ONE: Always use a greeting (and make sure it’s correct).

Using a greeting, like ‘hi’ or ‘hello’ is always polite and professional. It makes a positive first impression.

You always want to know WHO you’re writing to. For example, I get many emails that say, “Dear sir,” but I’m definitely not a sir. 😉

 

TIP TWO: Use the right level of formality.

If you’re too formal, your emails are cold and distant.

If you’re too informal too fast, you look unprofessional.

A good rule is to use the same level of formality your counterpart uses with you.

 

TIP THREE: Make sure your grammar, punctuation, and spelling are correct.

My favorite tool for this is Grammarly.com.

Plus it’s free!!

 

TIP FOUR: Use a clear simple subject line.

There are two reasons for this:

  1. It tells your reader what your email is about (and they are more likely to read it).
  2. It will be easier to search for important information later.

Watch the video for a clear example.

 

TIP FIVE: Keep your emails short.

Everyone is busy. Long sentences and long paragraphs are difficult to read.

Focus on the key point. And, when necessary, use bullet points.

In the video I share a simple example.

 

Lessons Mentioned in the Confident English Video:

Use the Right Greeting for Every Situation in English

The Language You Need to Write Great Emails in English

How to Be Professional, Polite, and Friendly in English

How to Use Commas for Correct Punctuation in English

 

Want to read the full transcript of this lesson on how to write better emails in English? 

Download and view it here. 📂

Now that you’ve watched the video, I have a challenge question for you. I want your advice.

I want to know what is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received for writing professional emails.

It’s very possible that someone in the Confident English community is stressing out about what to write in an email today and you might have the perfect piece of advice. So I would love to hear what that is.

You can share your advice with me in the comments at the end of this lesson.

~ Annemarie

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