It is very easy to commit typos while writing
an e-mail. However, even if your spelling is abysmal, most e-mail programs give
you access to a spell-check program. Make sure to spell check your e-mails
prior to hitting the send button.
If your e-mail program does not have a spell-check
option, then think outside of the box. Many people use Microsoft Word or some
other program to write their e-mail, spell- and grammar-check it, then
cut-and-paste it into their e-mail program.
In simplest terms, sending a professional e-mail
that is riddled with typos and grammar errors is just plain bad. An e-mail is
often the first contact you will have with a person, so if your e-mail has
numerous mistakes, their first impression of you will not be as good as it
could be.
Also, some simple spelling mistakes can completely
change the meaning of your message:
Good Spelling: I am hoping we can do a lot of
business together in the future!
Bad Spelling: I am hopping that we have bushes to
gather.
Notice that the first example conveys the writer’s
interest. The second example, however, will make the reader believe that you
want him or her to be involved with hopping and gathering bushes. That will likely lead to confusion.
On this same line, always read an e-mail before
sending it. Spell checking should always be done, but a spell-checker cannot
understand context. Reading your e-mail will help you catch mistakes a spell
checker can’t.
Leave the Emoticons Out
Personal e-mails can often
turn into a grand display of artwork and abbreviations:
Example: BTW, U have a Gr8
Bizz :)
Now, this may be an
acceptable way of saying “By the way, your company is very impressive,” to a
friend or sibling. But when writing e-mail in any type of professional
capacity, leave the emoticons alone.
As your business relations
improve, however, there is no harm in adding the occasional smiley to add a personal touch. But even then, use standard, correct spelling.