Are your emails getting ignored?

The ability to write a professional email is an important skill even if you are not working in a professional capacity. We are all bombarded with so many emails these days that it's all too easy for them to be overlooked or trashed without a second thought.

If you employ the following practices I promise your open and reply rate will increase.

?? ADD A PRECISE SUBJECT LINE

The first thing a person will notice is your subject line so be sure yours is short and precise. For example, EPSA annual meeting date change.

?? START WITH A PROFESSIONAL GREETING

Use any of the following:

·   Hello (first name).

·   Good morning / Good afternoon (first name).

·   Dear (first name).

·   Hi (first name) but only if you know the person well.

?? KEEP IT SHORT & TO THE POINT 

·   Avoid long, complicated sentences.

·   Don't write long paragraphs.

·   Bold text when the information is important.

·   Use bullet points for important details or lists.

?? CLOSE PROFESSIONALLY

·   I look forward to hearing from you.

·   Best wishes.

·   Sincerely,

·   Thank you for your time.

·   Warmly.

?? PROOFREAD IT TWICE

Some effective ways to proofread are:

·   Read your email out loud.

·   Ensure your spelling/grammar checker is turned on.

·   Have a friend or colleague review your email if you are not sure.

·   Use a program like Grammarly to help you.