With Twitter, Facebook, Linkedin and more, it is so easy to forget how to communicate in a more personal manner. Emails are a quick way to send out thoughts or questions to someone, that means a little more than a direct message or a wall post. Most of us avoid email because we feel it takes too long, we have to write long messages, etc. Completely untrue. These 5 emails can all be written in under 30 minutes, and are guaranteed to make a difference. I know, I just did them all.

Write to:

1. Someone who is doing better than you are in one area of your business. Whether they have their accounting system managed more efficiently or they are getting more referrals than you, pick something you want to improve. Send them a quick email asking them for a bit of advice. Not sure how to start? Be honest and heartfelt. Most people are willing to help someone they inspire, even if they are in the same field.
2. Someone doing worse than you in one area of your business. We have all been at the point in our business that we need some help, but many of us are scared to ask. What if someone were to just offer a little advice without you having to ask? Wouldn’t that make your day? Thought so. Just remember, be helpful and caring, not condescending or all-knowing.
3. Someone on twitter in your same neighborhood that you have chatted with before but never met IRL. The only way to bring a connection out of the web world and into the real world is to reach out. Invite them to coffee, and give the connection a chance to grow outside of twitter.
4. Someone who influenced you this week. Did they write a stellar blog post? Just send you a tweet or wall post that boosted your mood? Or maybe they were just there at the right time. Tell them thanks. Thank you goes a long way when you mean it.
5. Someone that you have lost contact with. Is there someone that you have met in the past that you haven’t talked to in a while? Send them a message just to say hello. See how they are doing. Make the first move.

I know what you’re thinking: “What if I don’t have their email address”? My answer? Go find it. Almost everyone has their email on their website, or if nothing else, a contact form. Still can’t find it? Ask someone else who is connected to them if they can help you get it (make sure to tell them why).

Let me know which ones you do today, and what happens!

Related posts:

1. Do you write the way that you speak?
2. But I have nothing to write about! (or do I?)
3. Email at dinner: when is it okay?

Kirsten

Tags: creative writing, Social Media, writing tools
Categories: Creative Business Ideas, Writing Advice | View Comments