How to write emails
Writing good emails is the key competency in any job in my opinion.
Here is my checklist on how to craft good emails and one example.
- Make it scannable.
- Lead with your ask.
- Establish your credibility (if contacting someone new).
- Propose next steps.
- Give a deadline.
- If asking a question, propose a solution.
- Write your subject lines like article headlines.
- Preview all messages on your smartphone.
- Edit all your emails. Never use the first draft.
Here's an example. Lines starting with # are comments.
To: editor@magazine.com
# Headline type subject
Title: Cooperation on article on crafting emails?
Dear Peter,
# Lead with the ask
do you want to cooperate with me on an article on
writing good emails?
# Establish credibility
I have been writing 10+ high-ranking articles
on crafting emails in magazines such as GQ (link) and Harper's
Bazaar (link) and got hundreds of positive responses from readers.
I think that your magazine could profit from my expertise.
# Propose next steps
If you give me your "okay" for considering the
idea, I can send you an outline within 4 working days.
# Give a **deadline**
Could you please send me a "yes" or "no" by next
Monday, 02, Month, Year so we both can move forward?
Best Martin