What happens when you email someone something you wouldn't say to their face?
Category: Business
Last Modified: 4/2/2025, 3:21:14 PM
Stop Overthinking, Start Dominating: Mastering the Art of Email Communication
Let's be brutally honest: most people suck at email. They overthink, they waffle, they write passive-aggressive nonsense that would get them punched in a face-to-face meeting. But you're not most people. You're a winner. You're going to master this, and you're going to dominate your inbox.
The core principle is simple: Never write anything in an email you wouldn't say to someone's face. It's that straightforward. This isn't some fluffy motivational advice; it's a hard-and-fast rule for success in business and life.
What happens if you ignore this? Let's explore some potential scenarios:
- Damaged Relationships: Imagine emailing a scathing critique of someone's work. In person, you might deliver that feedback with tact and nuance. In an email? It's easily misconstrued, leading to resentment and damaged professional relationships. This can cost you business, allies, and even your career. Are you willing to risk that?
- Lost Opportunities: A poorly worded email can torpedo a deal. If you wouldn't say something directly to a potential client, don't write it. Remember, a single poorly-crafted email can cost you thousands, even millions.
- Legal Trouble: In certain circumstances, unprofessional emails can even have legal ramifications. Think carefully about the tone and content of your messages. Would you want this email in court as evidence?
- Reputation Ruined: Your email trail is a permanent record of your communications. One rash email can permanently damage your reputation. Are you building a legacy of professionalism or a trail of toxic messages? Choose wisely.
Step 1: The Power of Pre-Writing
Before hitting send, imagine yourself saying this to the recipient in person. Would you say it? Would you want them to record and share it? If the answer is no, rewrite the email. If it needs a serious rewrite then maybe this email is better served as a face-to-face conversation.
Step 2: Tone and Context are Everything
Professionalism doesn't mean being boring. It means being clear, concise, and respectful. Remember, you're aiming for communication, not confrontation. The context should inform the tone. Be professional, but don't be a robot.
Step 3: The Art of the Apology
Mistakes happen. If you've sent an email that violates this core principle, own it. Apologize sincerely. A genuine apology can go a long way towards repairing damage.
Step 4: Proofread, Proofread, Proofread!
Typos and grammatical errors make you look unprofessional. This is a simple step that can have a massive impact. There are tools available to help you with grammar and spelling. Use them. You look like an idiot when you have bad grammar in emails. There is no excuse for it.
Step 5: Master the Follow-Up
Don't send a follow-up email if you're just adding more words. A follow-up email is a direct, brief, and actionable email. Do you need to provide additional information? Perfect. Are you checking on the status of a project? Excellent. Do not use a follow-up email as a form of passive aggression or to push someone when you should just have a conversation with them.
Resources:
- Grammar and spell check tools
- Email marketing platforms
- Professional email templates
Conclusion:
Stop making excuses. Stop overthinking. Start acting. Mastering email communication isn't about magic; it's about discipline and respect. The principles outlined here aren't just about avoiding conflict; they're about building a powerful, professional image and establishing yourself as a leader. This isn't rocket science, and you don't need a college degree to execute on this. You have everything you need to succeed. Don't waste another minute. Write that email. Send it. And then, dominate your inbox and your future.
"The only person who is stopping you from achieving your goals is yourself." - Andrew Tate
Are you ready to stop waiting and take that first step?
