To: Evan Crisp, UBC Student
From: Huntley Bain, ENGL 301 Student
Date: November 26, 2019
Subject: Writing Practices for Emailing Professors
Dear Evan,
Thank you for contacting our ENGL 301 Technical Writing Course for help regarding emailing professors. I have outlined some best practices and suggestions on how to use the you-attitude writing technique. This form of writing will improve your emails to your professors and can be used in the future in a professional environment. Hopefully these suggestions provide a response to your request.
Suggestions:
- A clear subject to ensure the recipient understands the purpose of the email
- Outline the course and your name in the subject so it is easier for the professor to respond to the email.
- Use their appropriate title such as “Dr.” or “Professor”
- Ensure you are using proper grammar
- Keep the message concise and remove unnecessary information
- Provide context as to why this course is important for you. Explaining that the course is necessary for graduation will show your dedication.
- Thank them for their time and consideration for reading your request
- Provide times that are convenient to follow up if a meeting is necessary. This will eliminate multiple emails trying to coordinate rather than just stating your availability right away.
Implementing a you-attitude in your communications will increase the level of professionalism. Additionally, I would suggest getting someone else to read the email before or reading the email from the recipient’s perspective. If you have any questions or concerns do not hesitate to contact me at huntley.bain@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Huntley Bain
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