Common Faults List
We’ve modeled our list and recommendations after the guidelines followed by a few organizations. So, they may not always be perfectly suited to your needs.
It's also important to understand that “mistake” is a bit subjective. What may be considered a bad email by one recipient might be perceived as a well-crafted email by another.
So, if you received a reply that contains a link to one of our pages, don't be alarmed. Think about it as a friendly request by the recipient to adjust future emails to them so they can understand and reply to you in the best possible way.
Avoid vague subject lines
The rule: Your subject line should clearly reflect the content of the email.
Don’t forget a call to action
The rule: Be specific about what you need from the recipient.
Be specific about who needs to do what
The rule: Directly address each person included in the thread so they know exactly who is expected to respond and/or act.
Stop derailing email threads
The rule: Don’t go off-topic in an email thread, especially when the new topic is important information.
Stick to the default language
The rule: It’s completely acceptable to choose whatever language you feel most comfortable with when meeting for coffee or chatting on a messaging app. But, the default language for emails is always English.
Don’t leave out key data or context
The rule: Take time to include the full context and any data the email recipient may need to take the requested action.
You really don’t have to CC everyone
The rule: Be super selective when choosing who to CC on emails.
Watch those attachments
The rule: Save time by avoiding unnecessary attachments or files that look like attachments.
Hold your horses
The rule: Never expect, or demand, immediate replies.
Stop asking people to micromanage you
The rule: Accept delegation when offered and run with the task at hand.