How to Use Proper Email Etiquette

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By CM Herold
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Email Etiquette

Avoid committing the dreaded email faux pas and make sure to use proper email etiquette. Many people unknowingly offend others via email. The Internet in general is considered an environment of colloquial language where people casually spill out emails as if they were using informal speech at a party or rock concert. Emails should always be clear, concise, and well written. Whether you’re writing a friend, college professor, fellow worker, or boss, always make sure your emails follow proper email etiquette.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

To use proper email etiquette, make sure to double check all emails before sending them to make sure your meaning is clear. Sending quick unreviewed, convoluted emails may not convey your intentional message and tone.
Step 2

Always use proper grammar usage, punctuation, and spelling.
Step 3

Don’t use all caps. MANY PEOPLE INTERPRET CAPS AS YELLING OR SCREAMING.
Step 4

Avoid cursing and using symbols like @#*/% that imply cursing.
Step 5

Make sure to use reply all and Bcc devices correctly. No one wants his or her personal email forwarded to everyone in your address book.
Step 6

Be polite. Always respond to email even if you only reply, “Thanks.” It’s important that people realize you received their email.
Step 7

Use 12 or 14 size font for proper email etiquette. Writing words too small makes them hard to read, and writing with a large font is too overbearing.
Step 8

Avoid a lot of cute smiley faces and silly acronyms like LOL, WTF, and BTW. If you’re writing a business letter don’t use them at all.
Step 9

Choose the formats to email downloads wisely. No one wants to wait 20 minutes for something to download.
Step 10

Always put a subject in the subject line.
Step 11

Before forwarding funny emails, make sure to get permission from people on your mailing list. Many people don’t appreciate having their email box full of forwarded emails even if the emails are hysterical or interesting.
Step 12

Write business emails the same way you would write a professional letter on paper. Make sure to address the person by their name. Sign your name and title. Business correspondence emails should be formal, concise, and professional.