Business Email: Set the Right Tone in Email

The tone in writing refers to the attitude of the writer towards the reader. It is essential for working professionals to consider the tone of their messages while writing business emails. The overall tone of your message should be positive. Words can come across a lot harsher in emails. Hence, select your words carefully. Don’t question - ask or request. Be alert to what your reader will read between the lines. Do not show off your vocabulary. Use plain and simple English even on technical subjects. Remember that your email is faceless and you will not be able to communicate your mood through your voice and expressions. Some people use more than one exclamation mark to convey some points. That is like shouting at the reader. Hey….. The subject line should be direct and clear. It is the first place to show a positive tone. After that, have the right tone in the salutation. Don’t use ‘Dear’ where a ‘Hello’ would be appropriate or vice versa. Ensure that your email does not end abruptly. You should sign off with words such as ‘Regards’ or ‘Thanks’ Never ever answer an email when you are in an angry mood. Calm down and compose yourself first.