Most work emails fail before they're opened — vague subject, wall of text, no clear ask. Good email etiquette is a career skill: the people who write clearly get answered faster and promoted sooner. Here's the playbook.
Subject Lines That Get Opened
Your subject should state the topic and any deadline: "Q3 report draft — feedback needed by Friday." Never use "Hi," "Quick question," or leave it blank. A good subject lets busy people prioritize your email correctly.
Structure Your Message
Lead with the ask, then the context. Keep emails under 150 words when possible; use short paragraphs and bullet points for lists. If it takes more than five paragraphs, it's a meeting, not an email — suggest a 15-minute call instead.
Tone and Politeness
Written words sound harsher than spoken ones. Add one warm line at the start ("Hope the launch went well!") and soften requests with "Could you..." instead of "Send me...". Never send an email when you're angry — draft it, wait an hour, then re-read.
Reply Times and Follow-Ups
Reply within 24 hours even if just to say "looking into this" — silence reads as indifference. If someone owes you a reply, follow up once after 3–4 business days with the original email attached. Polite persistence wins; nagging loses.
Apply these rules to your next five emails and watch response rates change. In a world of sloppy inboxes, a clear, courteous email is a superpower.