So you’re using the right power words to get your email opened, but for some reason, you’re still not getting a reply. Perhaps it’s time you took a long hard look at what you’re writing. There is nothing worse than trying to read through an email that’s riddled with spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, and long-winded phrases. Inc. thinks it’s time to clean up your act and improve your business writing skills, and we totally agree—especially if you plan on sending a cold email to a CEO. All it takes is a little attention to detail. Scroll down for some common writing faux pas you need to cut out now.
Writing Long-Winded Sentences
Who has time to write lengthy emails, let alone read them? The shorter and more concise your writing is, the more likely it will be read, and that is the aim right? Get to the point quickly with as few words as possible. One rule of thumb is to read your emails out loud before you hit send. This way you’ll know if a sentence is too long or not. Need help? Inc. recommends the Hemingway app.
Using Business Jargon or Buzzwords
Though you might think that using industry speak and buzzwords will make you look like you’re in the know, it doesn’t come across that way in emails. Rather, it alienates your reader and creates a barrier that can lead to confusion and ultimately deletion. Just use words that anyone can understand, plain and simple.
Writing in Passive Voice
Writing in a passive voice means “the receiver of an action is the subject of the sentence,” which looks like this: The copy was reviewed by the editor. But since we just told you to write shorter sentences, and get to the point quickly, an active voice is the more direct option and looks like this: The editor reviewed the copy. This approach to writing will get the message across without confusion.
Visit Inc. to read three more writing mistakes to ditch.
Photo source: Fashion Me Now
