Knowing what you want

• Ask four questions to decide whether e-mail is really your best option.
• Discover questions to ask to decide what reaction you want from your readers.
• Learn powerful hints to get your readers to think, say, do, or feel what you want.
• Implement a simple, three-step blueprint that will help you judge reaction to your e-mail – before you send it.
  

Breaking through the clutter

• Incorporate powerful language and techniques to get others to read your e-mails.
• Know when to use attachments and when they simply annoy the reader.
• Avoid common e-mail mistakes that almost guarantee your document won’t be read.
• Use formatting techniques that increase readability.
• Apply shortcuts to save time for yourself – and your reader.
• Discover how to present details, numbers, and technical information that gets read.

Getting what you want – when you want it

• Ensure that your e-mails are creating the professional image you want.
• Write effectively in a time crunch without sounding impersonal and rushed.
• Share bad news and complaints without offending your readers.
• Use the most powerful words in the English language to persuade your reader.
• Include language that gets immediate action.
• Develop and fine-tune an e-mail style that expresses your personality.

Polishing your e-mail

• Quickly identify words, phrases, and emoticons you should not use in business e-mails.
• Do you really have to proofread and spell check? Find out the pros and cons.
• Eliminate word noise that muddles your message and dilutes impact.
• Learn six simple rules that guarantee clarity and simplicity in any e-mail.
• Correct rambling with better organization and precise wording.
• Eliminate mistakes that make you appear unprofessional.