EMAIL ETIQUETTE 101

The DO’S and DONT’S of Workplace Communication 

In today’s digital age, email remains a cornerstone of professional communication. Mastering the art of email etiquette is not just about avoiding faux pas; it’s about enhancing clarity, professionalism, and efficiency in your workplace communication.  

Here’s a comprehensive guide to the do’s and don’ts of effective email communication at work. 

THE EMAIL ETIQUETTE DO’S: EMAIL LIKE A PRO 

Do: Start with a Clear Subject Line 

Your subject line is the first impression. Fiduchi Group says to make it count by being concise and descriptive. Think of it as a headline that summarizes the email’s content.  

Do: Use a Professional Salutation 

Begin with a polite greeting. “Dear,” “Hello,” or “Hi” followed by the recipient’s name sets a professional tone. 

Do: Keep it Concise and to the Point 

Respect the recipient’s time. Keep your email brief and focused. Avoid long-winded sentences and get straight to the point. 

Do: Check Your Tone 

Email lacks tone of voice and body language. Be mindful of how your words might come across. A friendly yet professional tone is usually a safe bet. 

Do: Proofread Before Sending 

Typos and grammatical errors don’t just look bad; they can also lead to misunderstandings. A quick proofread can save you from embarrassment and confusion. 

Do: Use Bullet Points for Clarity 

If you’re covering multiple points, bullet lists are your friend. They enhance readability and ensure that your key points stand out. 

Do: Remember the Attachment 

There’s nothing more frustrating than forgetting to attach a document. Always double-check before hitting send. 

Do: Sign Off Politely 

End your email with a courteous sign-off like “Best regards” or “Sincerely,” followed by your name. 

THE EMAIL ETIQUETTE DON’TS: EMAIL FAUX PAS TO AVOID 

Don’t: Overuse High Priority Flags 

Reserve the high priority option for truly urgent messages. Overusing it can dilute its importance and annoy your recipients. 

Don’t: Write in ALL CAPS 

ALL CAPS can come across as shouting. It’s best to avoid it unless you want to emphasize a specific point. 

Don’t: Use Slang or Text Speak 

This isn’t a casual text to a friend. Avoid using slang, jargon, or abbreviations that might not be universally understood. 

Don’t: Overload with CCs and BCCs 

Only include people who need to be in the loop. Overcrowding the recipient list can lead to information overload and confusion. 

Don’t: Respond in Anger 

If an email upsets you, take a step back before responding. A hasty, emotional reply can lead to unprofessional conflicts. 

Don’t: Forget About Your Audience 

Tailor your message to your audience. What works for a colleague may not be suitable for a client or a senior executive. 

Email communication, when done right, can be a powerful tool in the professional toolkit. By adhering to these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure that your emails are effective, professional, and well-received. Remember, in the world of email communication, it’s not just what you say but how you say it that counts. Happy emailing!