Explaining - Do you add context/reasoning to emails?

Last updated by Tiago Araújo [SSW] 18 days ago.See history

Sometimes you send an email and get a response saying it's too cryptic. Never assume that others will understand you anyways. When sending an email it's very important to add context and reasoning, and make yourself as clear as possible. This way anyone can understand your content at any time in the future.

It starts with a good email subject. Then provide extra clear information by adding links and screenshots with useful captions to emails.

Also make sure to always keep the history of an email, so there are enough details in the thread for anyone else to acknowledge what is going on.

Figure: Bad example - There is no context or reasoning

Figure: Good example - There is both context and reasoning

What if you receive a cryptic email?

The most productive way to understand a confusing email is to seek clarification with a call.

Video: Top 10+ Rules to Better Email Communication with Ulysses Maclaren

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