Your short emails might be making you look unprofessional. Here’s why.
You spend time crafting a clear, error-free email in a foreign language.
You’re confident it’s perfect. The attachment is there. No typos.
Then, you get a reply: “Attachment received. Thank you.”
You stare at your screen, wondering: What just happened?
Where’s the greeting? Where’s the closing line? Where’s the signature?
It may seem small, but how you structure your email can impact how you’re perceived.
So, before you hit send, consider these 3 actionable tips:
1. Match your Email to the situation:
Are you emailing a colleague or someone you know? A brief reply is fine.
✘ In formal settings or with new contacts, short emails can seem cold or unprofessional.
2. Respect cultural differences:
In France, a quick “Well received, thanks” may be normal.
✘ In England, skipping greetings and closings can come across as rude.
3. Professionalism always wins
Not sure what to do? Always include a greeting, a closing line and a signature. It’s a simple way to sound more professional and build better relationships.
In short, brief emails are okay for casual, internal communication. But for formal or first-time interactions, add the right greeting, closing line, and don’t forget the signature.
Have you ever sent/ received an email this short? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
P.S. I help professionals write clear, culturally sensitive business emails to succeed in a global workplace.
🔄 Share these tips to help your network write clearer, more professional emails!
