How to Write a Formal Business Email

Business emails can be sent to clients or other professionals.

No matter what type of work you do or what industry you're in, you'll most likely have to write a formal business email at some point. A formal business email is an email message sent to a business associate or superior. You need to make sure your email message is polite, professional and to the point. Most businesspeople don't have time to read through a lengthy email. With business writing, simple and concise is almost always better than long and wordy.

Instructions

1. Create a subject that clearly explains what your email is about. Businesspeople receive dozens of emails a day, and many will delete messages based on the subject. Be direct with the subject of your email. For example, if you're writing an email to invite your colleagues to a seminar, your subject could be "Public Speaking Seminar Invitation - How to Win Over Your Audience."

2. State the purpose of your business email right away. Much like the subject, you need to get right to the point. Use short sentences and short paragraphs. Your recipient doesn't have time to read through lengthy paragraphs or repeated phrases.

3. Don't use slang language or clichés. Go through your business email carefully and eliminate this type of language.

4. Proofread. Make sure you have no grammar or spelling mistakes and that your message is perfectly clear.

5. Tell the recipient what you need from her. Don't assume she'll know what you need. State clearly what her next steps should be, such as sending you certain information or calling you on the phone.

6. Close your letter with a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best Regards" and type your full name. Don't assume the recipient will know who you are from your email address and first name.

References

• Lousy Writer.com: How to Write a Better Business Email

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish