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  • Writer's pictureViva Sarah Press

There is power in a name

Updated: Jun 7, 2021

I get unsolicited emails all the time.


One of my roles in the workspace is that of a freelance journalist. So, it makes sense that I would get unexpected and unsolicited emails from public relations firms or marketers or companies or elsewhere.


When the email is addressed in general – Hi all, Hey, Greetings -- the likelihood of me responding is zero.


Using my name – or her name or his name – should be obvious.


“Without a nice greeting … at the beginning of your email, more times than not your content will be perceived as demanding or terse,” according to the Net Manners blog.


Most good PR companies already know that. They use a data service when sending emails. Sure, most of them look and sound spammy – but at least they try to make the message sound as if rapport-building is important to them.


So, what is the etiquette when reaching out to a peer or an acquaintance or a friend of a friend?


Use a name.


Same goes for reaching out to a possible job contact or someone who may be able to help you.


Use a name.


You need something? No worries. You can ask for it. You should ask for it. But take a few extra seconds and add a short greeting.


It makes all the difference.


“I hope you’re well.” “I hope this reaches you well.” “How are you?”


And then the reason for the message.


Yes, even the smallest courtesies are important.


Tone and intent are hard enough to get across in a written message. Why make it harder?


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