Can You Get To The Point?

Sending an apologetic email filled with ‘filler words’ when you require something that is long overdue such as payment, will do you no . Here’s an example of what you might send:

“Hello Bill, just a friendly reminder that your invoice is a little overdue and we’d appreciate payment as soon as you can. Sorry to bring this up.”

You can almost hear the sickly sweetness dripping off the words. But the alternative doesn’t need to be harsh to get the point across, and why should you when someone owes you money anyway?

Here’s another option:

“Hello Bill, you may not be aware that your account is overdue by $, would you be able to make this week?”

You’re still saying the same thing but more directly and without adding sickly filler words to dress it up.

Here’s another example:

“I’m sorry, but I really have to disagree…”

Why use ‘sorry’? Your opinion is nothing to be sorry about and it adds fluff to what you are saying.

Everyone’s inbox is busy, so keep your message polite but clear by getting to the point succinctly. A bit like this post.

I am the author of three books (Wiley) on social media marketing and building relationships (another out this August making four) and you can find them all here. Get a FREE sample chapter from each of my books by subscribing to me for useful updates. If you are looking for a speaker or trainer for your next event, do get in touch. You might like to listen to my podcasts here.