From Morse code and telegrams to MSN and Myspace, communication is an important part of our past, present and future. Today, email is one of the most popular ways to keep in touch—at home, at school and at the office.
“Email has replaced several older methods of business communication—including letters and, in some cases, telephone calls. It is difficult to communicate the tone of the message—and often it is misinterpreted,” says Kate Laing, Humans Resources Manager, of Pacrim Hospitality Services, Inc.
“That is why it is important to keep emails succinct, to use professional, rather than casual language, and to refrain from overusing capitals, and other symbols—as they have started to develop negative connotations (such as yelling or swearing).”
Quick Tips for Sending an Email to a Potential Employer
- Send emails on time
- Know the difference between To, Cc and Bcc
- Know the difference between Reply and Reply to All
- Know the proper salutations and signatures
- Keep the message short and sweet
- Don’t use long complicated sentences
- Use gender neutral language
- Never send an email in uppercase letters
- Omit abbreviations and emoticons
- Don’t overdo punctuation!!!
- Check spelling and grammar before you click send
- Reread your email before you send it
- Don’t attach unnecessary files, as people are weary of viruses
- Try not to print emails, for privacy reasons and to save paper
- Don’t fill in the address field until you’ve proofed your email
- Leave confidential information for an in-person meeting or telephone call
- Don’t forward chain letters
- Don’t reply to spam
Make your first impression turn into a fulfilling position in the hospitality industry. Remember that the person you’re emailing could end up being your boss!