How to Write Emails Like a Pro (Because ‘Hey Boss’ Might Not Cut It)

🚫 "Hi Boss" → Sounds like a text to your buddy
🚫 No subject line → Straight to the trash folder
🚫 Wall of text → TL;DR (Too Long; Didn't Read)

The Fix? Master these email superstructures used by top professionals worldwide.

The 3 Email Templates You'll Use Forever

1. The "Magic Request" Formula
✅ Subject: [Action] + [Benefit]
Example: "Approval Needed: Project Budget That Saves 15%"
✅ Body:

• Context: 1 sentence
• Ask: Clear action item
• Gratitude: Professional closing

2. The "Oops" Email (For Mistakes)
✅ Subject: Brief acknowledgment
Example: "Following Up on Yesterday's Invoice Error"
✅ Body:

• Own it: "I’ve identified the issue"
• Fix it: "Here’s the corrected version"
• Learn from it: "This won’t happen again"

3. The "Cold Contact" Winner
✅ Subject: Shared connection + purpose
Example: "Maria Suggested I Reach Out About the Marketing Role"
✅ Body:

• Who you are: 1 credential
• Why them: Specific compliment
• Next steps: Easy yes/no question

Why Non-Native Writers Have a Secret Edge

ESL professionals often write clearer emails because they:
✔ Avoid confusing idioms ("Let's circle back")
✔ Use straightforward sentence structures
✔ Proofread meticulously (unlike many natives!)

Pro Tip: Set your email language to English to catch accidental translations.

Vocabulary Builder (B1/B2 Level)

1. Superstructure (n.) – An organized framework/system
   Example: "This email superstructure works for most professional situations."
2. TL;DR (phr.) – Internet slang for "too long didn't read"
   Example: "Avoid walls of text that trigger TL;DR reactions."
3. Meticulously (adv.) – With extreme care and attention
   Example: "She proofreads emails meticulously before sending."
4. Credential (n.) – Qualification or achievement
   Example: "Include one key credential in introduction emails."
5. Straightforward (adj.) – Simple and easy to understand
   Example: "Non-native writers often use straightforward language effectively."

Activity: Rewrite the following casual email professionally using 3 vocabulary words:
"Hey, I need that report. Send it ASAP. Thanks."