The most worn-out e-mail phrases and some better alternatives

A lot of business communication takes place through e-mail. This communication channel has already developed its own culture and habits, and sadly, even clichés. Here are alternatives to the most over-used phrases that people use in e-mails. These are not wrong per se, but long ago stopped being effective, and which can be replaced with much more appropriate alternatives.

Illustration

"I hope you are doing well."

… and other variations of this phrase. According to HubSpot blog, this sentence is now totally useless because it lost its meaning through overuse. Also, it is too general. However, the sentence can be rephrased so that it's more specific and shows the client that you're interested in what's new and what's happening. You can, for example, write:

  • "I see that you will be taking part in the XXX trade fair the week after the next. I hope that your preparations for the presentation are going smoothly."
  • "Congratulations on the new product line, I hope it sells well."
  • "I wish you a lot of success opening your new office in XXX.“

"Special offer for you"

Again, this phrase by itself is too vague and general. If you are trying to personalize the offer, and make the client a specialized proposal, you must describe it in specific terms and personalize it with regards to the customer's needs. This is why you should write:

  • "Given the focus of your company, i.e. production of XXX, the ideal option is…“
  • "I am offering you this option with a 20% discount because I am aware that these days you have extra spending connected to the launch of your new product XXX on the market."

"I apologize for answering late"

If you did not manage to reply on time (which should happen as little as possible), at least state the reason and make the client familiar with what you're doing these days.

  • "Sorry for replying to you today. Yesterday I was at the XXX conference and I talked to our business partners, among them YYY."
  • "We just finished preparing the campaign for next year that will support the introduction of our new product on the market …"

-mm-

Article source HubSpot Blog - marketing and sales blog of the HubSpot company
Read more articles from HubSpot Blog