Overflowing inboxes is a common complaint among time-poor workers struggling to read their daily dose of electronic mail. Here are a few tips to business email etiquette that will increase the likelihood your email will not only be opened but also read and actioned in a timely manner.

Timing

• Avoid peak email-checking periods like Monday mornings
• Send non-urgent emails on Tuesday, Wednesdays and Thursdays

Attachments

• Beware virus-phobias
• Seek permission from reader first

Layout

• One point per paragraph
• Maximum 6 paragraphs

Subject line

• Use 10 words or less to capture the reader’s attention
• CAP main point
• Include your company’s name to make it easier to find archived emails
• Write last in order to focus main point

Language

• Imagine writing to a specific individual rather than group mail-out
• Writing style should match level of relationship with reader
• Use active speech; short and sharp writing

Signature

• Business logo
• Business tagline or quote