1. Though it seems the opposite of what you should do, the more time you take composing your email, the more helpful it will be to the recipient. It will save time in the long run. If you’re sloppy they’ll have questions and will have to write you back and that means another email in your box.
2. It is important to spend time developing yourself and increasing your skills. Many technical people forget to develop soft skills, and vice versa. Aim to attend at least two courses or workshops a year. Also regularly read relevant books to develop these skills. You have to stay one step ahead of the competition in order to be a phenomenal success.
3. Business relationships that last have both parties investing in each other. They communicate when something isn’t working, they understand that relationships take work and that you can’t throw in the towel at the first sign of trouble.
4. Strong business communication skills demand that you never show fear, hesitation or doubt – unless these would help with the outcome of your negotiation and you are knowingly showing this doubt or fear.
5. If you find that you’re making several points in the email, consider sending separate emails with unique subject lines. It will help you both keep track of separate issues.
6. Last and certainly not least, listen like you’ve never listened before. We all think we listen, but mostly we listen with filters, assumptions and judgements. Don’t just hear the words; listen to what isn’t being said and the meaning underneath the words. You’ll be surprised at what you will learn. Think active listening. Recast what the person has said to convey that you are paying attention and may seek a resolution of the problem.
