7 email mistakes you need to stop making

Think about how many emails you produce and read each day. Do you read some and think that was a waste of time? Or do you look back at one you sent and realise that none of it makes sense? Here are seven email mistakes you need to stop making right now.

1. No attention on subject line
It’s best if you don’t make a subject line vague and instead say exactly what it is. It will save time and you’re not beating around the bush. If you’re replying to an email, change the subject to what you’re writing about. That way you are being specific and the other person will appreciate that.

2. Sending them to too many people
Before you select Reply All, think if it’s really necessary. People get irritated if they are receiving a thread of emails with information that they just don’t need to know, or care about. Selecting ‘reply all’ may save a few seconds but it isn’t worth it in the long run.

3. You’re not proof reading or editing
It’s easy to make mistakes when writing emails, but if you don’t read over them before sending them, it could make you look very unprofessional. If it’s an important email, it’s worth writing a draft before and checking over it a few times before clicking send.

4. Don’t believe your emails are private
If you want to gossip or moan about your employees, do it in conversation, not email! You could easily send an email by accident to the very person you’re talking about or find your email was forwarded on. Treat your emails as if they were going to be read out in front of the office and you will soon be much more professional with them.

5. You’re taking ages to reply
The whole point of an email is that it’s supposed to be a fairly quick way of communication. If you’re taking ages to reply to someone and don’t have a legitimate reason why, then you’re coming across as rude. If it’s a long email and you’re going to need some time to think before you reply, email them back to just inform them that you have received it and will reply soon.

6. They’re too long
Try and stick to one subject per email. If you need to discuss various points, then make them separate emails. They will be much easier to read and there will be less confusion. If you need to refer back to an email in the future, you’re going to struggle to find it if there’s been various points made. It may be annoying having to create various emails, but it will be worth it in the future.

7. Pick up the phone
Email can be great, but nothing is quite as fast and to the point as a phone call. Give your inbox, and everyone else’s, a break, and speak. You might even find you prefer it…

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