Emails are the most popular way to contact people because of smartphones and computers nowadays. But, there are times when people tend to write their emails in such a way that will get its recipients annoyed.
Besides bad grammar, poor spelling and disappearing punctuations, check out the usual email fails that often trigger you daily when you get one.
Oh yes, if your coworker is sitting next to you, please just pop over to talk to him instead of sending emails.
“Pls advice” (Please assist to advice)
What you are trying to say: You (the recipient) know more about the topic, please offer some suggestions.
What you actually said: Please assist to suggestion
What can you use: Please advise
The word “Advice” is actually a noun that refers to the “suggestion” provided. However, “advise” is the correct word to use when referring to suggesting information.
Using the word “pls” is also unprofessional if it is used in a formal email. Always spell the word in full to get your point across.
“Nice to e-meet you”
What you are trying to say: I am happy to meet you through email.
What you actually said: I am just reiterating the fact we’re talking online.
What can you use: “It is a pleasure to be working with you” or “Nice to meet you.”
“FYNA pls” (for your necessary action/notion and action please)
What you are trying to say: Take note of the information and act on it because you may not have read my emails completely.
What you actually said: I don’t trust you to work on your own so here I am getting involved.
What can you use: If your email is easy to understand, people will definitely take action. If you use acronyms just to shorten the email, it may not be understood by your recipient and caused problems. Some may not even recognize the acronym you just used.
“Just to touch base with you”
What you are trying to say: Just to inform you about this topic
What you actually said: I want to take you out and reach all the bases.
What can you use: Just to follow up
“Highly noted”
What you are trying to say: I got the information you sent.
What you actually said: The note is now in a high place.
What can you use: You can use phrases like “Got it” or “Thanks for the information.”
Inconsistent formatting
What you are trying to say: There are various points in this email that you need to be aware of but they are all important so read it.
What you actually said: I am bored so I used my time to edit this to get you to reply to this. While some say it is good to do this, it is not proven to be helpful but it’s fun doing it.
What can you use: Keep your emails straight to the point, especially if it is for something important. Having a brief email will make it easy for your readers to get the information you want them to know.
Marking messages urgent/important
What you are trying to say: I need a reply ASAP
What you actually said: I want answers now, pay attention because I have no time to wait.
What can you use: If a task really requires that email, it is ok to mark the email as urgent. But, if you only need to use it when it is important. If you are just following up something or just want to say hello, don’t use the “urgent” marker on it. If you want an answer to those inquiries, just call your recipient or send them a text.
Conclusion
Emails are very important, especially for business or work purposes. It must be written in such a way that is easy to understand and not frustrate people.
With these tips above, I hope you will be able to correct your email writing skills and inspire others to check their email writing skills too.
What else have you notice about email etiquette that irks you? Share with us in the comments below.
For tips to be productive at work so you can knock off on time, here are some articles you should read: 6 Apps that increase Your Productivity Being Productive @ Work: What Are The 5 Time Wasting Things You Do At Your Desk Work Hacks that will Save You Time
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