Powerful Emails

I want to talk about writing powerful emails today. I touched briefly on this early in the year, but today I want to get to a bit deeper on how to respond to client emails.

First, never ignore an email. If you don't have time to respond to the questions or concerns, reply with "I've received your email. I will address this shortly, but I want you to know that I am aware of it and I will address it."

If you are responding to a client or potential client's email, read it twice before you send it. You don't want to send an email filled with typos or a tone that can be misinterpreted. Speaking of tone, unless you are friends with the person to whom the email is being sent to- leave emotions out of it. If a client or coworker has made you upset, walk away from the email. Again, reply with "I've received your email. I will address this shortly, but I want you to know that I am aware of it and I will address it," and wait a day or two before you do respond. Letting anger seep into an email is always unprofessional- even if you are provoked.

Don't over communicate, either. If the email chain starts to go past four responses, call the person. You shouldn't use email as a book or main point of communication. If you are starting to reply to emails- again over 4 responses- then a phone call or in-person meeting is in order. Don't allow someone else to drive the email conversation to the point of no return. Pick up a phone or schedule to meet over coffee to talk about the issue on the table.

I hope this information has been helpful. I think we can always use reminders on how to conduct email during such a virtual work space culture.

Until tomorrow,

Twyla Garrett

Your Salary... How to Define It.

This blog is primarily reviewed by business owners. However, I have noticed a recent trend of executives and hourly staff reading this blog to improve their plight in business. That's why I decided to cover the sensitive topic of salary today. One of the toughest questions you will be asked when applying for employment is about your salary expectations. This question is feared because it is a deal breaker. Answer too low and you'll short-change yourself. Answer too high and you won't get the job. So, how do you answer it properly?

According to FoxBusiness.com the best answer is as follows, "You can give yourself some wiggle room on the question by saying you’re willing to negotiate on “total compensation.” You know, the perks, such as vacation days or flexible work arrangements, that might make the job more worthwhile even if the pay is lower than you want."

As a business owner, I have to say I agree with Fox. You have to remain transparent about your prior salary. And, you should do research on the salary allowances for the company you are interviewing with. If you know they pay low, leverage vacation days or work arrangements. If you know they pay high, show your value and why you are worth an increase in pay from your prior salary to your possible new position.

The worst thing you can do is toss out random numbers and show up to the interview ill-prepared. Do your research, know your bottom line and consider trading in dollars for days off or work days at home.

Happy job hunting!
Twyla