Experts agree: despite all our new tech, our communication has never been so poor. Over the years, we’ve become hooked on email, as if it’s the only way to do business. In 2022, more than half the world’s population used email (4.3 billion people!) and roughly 333 billion emails were sent every single day (Source: Arobase.org).

Email is cold

Here’s why. Email leaves out key elements of real communication: body language, tone of voice, facial expressions, even the overall vibe. And depending on their mood, it’s easy for people to misinterpret or make assumptions about your messages.

What does an email reflect?

Your image and reputation, without question. Never forget that you’re writing on behalf of your employer, who may have access to your emails. You need to pay attention not only to what you write but how you write it.

Skip the casual stuff

Avoid greetings like “Hey,” throwaway “ha ha ha” or “LOL,” shortcuts like “A+,” nicknames, endless abbreviations, and punctuation overload!!!! Emojis can also backfire since their meaning depends on age, context, and personality. In business, email should always be professional. Don’t confuse it with texts or social media.

Don’t tank your credibility

Sending off an email in the heat of the moment can tank your productivity, hurt your credibility, and damage relationships with colleagues or clients. It can make you come across as aggressive, condescending, angry, or indifferent. And once a misunderstanding happens by email, it’s almost impossible to fix. Email is not the place to resolve conflicts or negotiate. Remember: email is cold.

Get their attention

Thirty-five percent of people won’t open an email if the subject line is vague. A strong subject that clearly reflects the content makes a big difference. If you attach a document, mention it in the body. Be precise and concise. Shoot straight and use short sentences.

One more thing: watch your language quality. Typos are jarring, slow down reading, and damage your professional image. A simple fix? Use a grammar tool like Grammarly, or Antidote for French.

Who belongs in CC?

Make sure you’re sharing important info with recipients who actually need it and care. Nobody likes being bombarded by irrelevant emails. It’s just a waste. Same goes for endless  back-and-forth chains and those infamous RE: RE: RE: threads.

At the end of the day, email will never replace a real conversation. And remember, phones still exist! Use email to set up a quick call. You’ll save yourself (and others) a ton of time and avoid clunky explanations.

Just because it’s written doesn’t mean it’s understood.