Oops – is that your amateurism showing?
I had some email correspondence recently with a client, and I can only say that despite the words in his email, I got the impression I shouldn’t trust him. Why? Because he used some “template” stationery that resembles a notebook page, and he signed all emails with “C ya.” This from a person I’d never done business with before, and someone I won’t be doing business with. Ever.
I’d love to believe he’s the only one, but there have been way too many emails hitting my in box that use graphics that I can only describe as “high school” mentality. Smiley faces, once in a while, are okay, but only if you’ve developed that sort of friendly rapport with the person to whom you’re writing. Not so much if you’re writing to a PR person or, God forbid, a CEO for an exclusive interview. Saying something like “I’d love to have the opportunity to speak with you” is enough. Don’t add “:-)” A) it’s unnecessary, and B) you look stupid.
The same goes for your fancy-shmancy email add ons. Those flashing lights and running dogs are oh-so-cute to Aunt Helen, but the client who wants someone experienced enough to handle a book rewrite is going to think he went shopping for a writer at the local KinderCare. Do yourself a favor – stick with plain text and no fancy color or font combos. They’re distracting. If you feel you must pump it up, live a little – go Rich Text format.
Think about what you’re sending. Don’t think how much your client might need a little pick-me-up, or that you’re in charge of the Sunshine Wagon today. Do your job. Leave the kid stuff to the kids.
Hmmm, this sounds suspiciously like a few people I know.
Really? It’s sad, because while they may be thinking how much nicer it looks, it’s a bit of a pain. The emails open much more slowly (and I’m on a fiber-optic network) and it’s just distracting.
Ugh, yes, this drives me crazy! I have one writing colleague who’s got a kitten playing with a ball of yarn or something. Not only does it make the e-mails way bigger than they need to be, but it’s just plain obnoxious. It’s just shy of the egregiousness of sending e-mail chain letters to your client. Seriously, people, grow up already!
Like you said, Lori, it’s one thing if there’s an established relationship, or if the tone of the conversation dictates that something more casual would work. But unless the client opens the door, you’d better not — and if they fling the door open from the beginning with their “kewl” and “LOL” and “c ya,” think long and hard about how professional they’ll be elsewhere in your dealings.