Email composition has continually evolved, with 2018 bringing new trends to the forefront of digital communication. Navigating these trends is essential for crafting effective and engaging emails that captivate the attention of your recipients. In this blog, we delve into several key areas of email evolution during the year, shedding light on the dos and don’ts of modern email writing.
Overused Email Phrases to Avoid
The way we start and end our emails can have a significant impact on how our message is received. 2018 saw a departure from certain clichéd expressions that were once staples in email communication. Phrases like “to whom it may concern” or “I just wanted to touch base” have been identified as overused and are being replaced by more direct and engaging alternatives. Instead of relying on these tired expressions, consider using personalized greetings and clear, purpose-driven opening lines.
Examples:
- Avoid: “I hope this email finds you well”
- Try: “I trust you’re having a productive week”
- Avoid: “Per my last email”
- Try: “To add to our previous discussion”
Popular Email Closing Signatures
Closing your email effectively can leave a lasting impression. In 2018, closings like “Yours sincerely” or “Best” have declined in popularity, making way for more tailored sign-offs that reflect the context of your email and your relationship with the recipient. Closings such as “Looking forward to our collaboration,” or “Warm regards,” add a personal touch and reinforce the tone of the email content.
Examples:
- For formal correspondence: “Respectfully,”
- For friendly follow-ups: “Cheers,”
- For prompting a response: “Eager to hear your thoughts,”
- When providing assistance: “Happy to help,”
Innovative Email Formatting Techniques
Email format can greatly enhance readability and clarity. 2018 has seen a shift towards cleaner, more organized structures using bullet points, numbered lists, and bold text to highlight key information. Additionally, breaking up large blocks of text with white space or using subheadings to segment ideas helps to guide the recipient through the content with ease.
Examples:
- Use bullet points to list items or benefits
- Number steps or instructions for clarity
- Bold or italicize important terms or deadlines
The Rise of Visual Elements in Emails
Visuals have become a crucial component of engaging emails. Including images, infographics, or even videos in an email can grab attention and enhance the user experience. 2018 has affirmed the importance of balancing text with relevant visuals that complement your message and are optimized for quick loading to accommodate various internet speeds.
Examples:
- Attach a chart to present data visually
- Embed a short tutorial video for a new product feature
- Include a branded image that reinforces the email topic
Personalization Strategies in Email Correspondence
Personalization in emails goes beyond addressing a recipient by their first name. The year 2018 marked a trend towards hyper-personalization using data-driven insights to tailor content according to the recipient’s interests, behavior, and past interactions. This level of personalization creates a sense of individual attention and increases the likelihood of a response or action.
Examples:
- Reference a recent interaction or transaction
- Include recommendations based on purchase history
- Personalize promotional offers based on the recipient’s location or preferences
Impact of Mobile Devices on Email Writing Practices
With mobile devices increasingly being the primary tool for checking emails, writing practices in 2018 have adapted to ensure compatibility and user-friendliness on smaller screens. Short subject lines, concise content, and easily clickable links or call-to-action buttons are vital for users on the go. Additionally, ensuring that your emails are responsive, meaning they adjust to various screen sizes, has become a standard practice.
Examples:
- Keep subject lines under 50 characters for better visibility on mobile devices
- Use single-column layouts for a better mobile experience
- Space out links and buttons to avoid misclicks on touchscreens
In conclusion, the email composition trends of 2018 demonstrate a shift towards more personalized, visually engaging, and mobile-friendly email practices. By being aware of these trends and incorporating them into your email strategy, you can improve both the effectiveness and the reception of your digital communications.
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