Do you treat email like a letter?

In the olden days we used to type letters on type writers (and before then they were hand written of course!). We then advanced to computers and printed letters and posted them.

Today most of use rely on email for business communication when dealing with clients and customers. Do you treat email like a letter?

We all know that once it is writing, it is there forever. Email is so vastly different given the ability to be instantly viral and in the hands of millions within seconds. Emails can be used for or against us personally and our business.

In my opinion and experience in recent years, many people use email similar to text messaging; abbreviations, poor grammar,  unfortunate layouts, inappropriate use of emoticons and words such as 'cheers'. Seriously, had you 'typed' that letter and posted it to a client would you end the email with 'cheers'? That I doubt.

My thoughts simply are to ensure that thought is put into the reality of what email is when using it for business related communication.

1. Don't send it unless you would say it
2. Use correct grammar
3. Be conscious of presentation and layout
4. Be conscious of words used - is it professional
5. Be prepared for what you type is going to be there forever
6. Be aware that whatever is said could go viral; therefore ensure professionalism
7. Protect your brand and professionalism
8. Be aware of email etiquette
9. Ensure that your business has an email policy

I don't profess to be an email expert by far; these thoughts are merely by own as a business owner, real estate educator and a person who like you sends hundreds of emails a week.

What image are you and your business setting to the public when emails are sent from your agency?

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