There used to be an age when we were taught to write letters in our schools. Then there was technology boom coupled with the exponential growth in Internet technology. This has led to the use of email as primary mode of written communication. Companies invariably use email for all its internal and external communication, as it is quicker as well as cheaper.

As email is a quicker, people tend to send mails for even insignificant matters. As a result, the in-boxes get flooded with more useless mails than productive ones! On many occasions, the matter becomes incomprehensible due to use of complicated sentences and difficult words. Such emails are mostly dumped into trash without a second thought.

It is entirely different from letter-writing. A common problem encountered by many is to draft proper emails for superior colleagues, bosses and clients. Given below are a few tips which can help you write better emails.Subject line, the most important part of the email, should be always prominent. It should draw the attention of the reader and give him a reason to read your email.Avoid extending the salutation part beyond one sentence.

Tone of the mail should be firm and precise. Use simple sentences as much as possible. Avoid repeating the matter as it only adds to the irritation of the reader.Use more positive sentences. For e.g. instead of “If you don’t reply within one week, I will not be able to discuss the matter further”, you can write “I would request your reply within a week so that we can discuss further matters” or “Please keep me informed if you require more time to reply.”

Give the reader a feeling that you are interested in the matter as much as he is. However, steer clear of the desperation tone! Close the email with a polite line which reflects your openness towards possible debates with regards to the matter. For e.g. “Do let me know in case you need further details.” This enhances your chances of a speedy reply.

Effective communication is a tool. If used wisely, it can help you reach heights. An employee who has clear communication is always the boss’s favorite. Practice these email etiquette and sharpen your communication skills to make the climb up the “Business Ladder” smooth and fine.