Hope You’re Doing Well?!

I admit. I am as guilty as they come. I used to start all my emails with “I hope you’re doing well”.

Anyone who gets a lot of email is familiar with the stock “I hope you are doing well.” It’s the business email equivalent of small talk that begins with “How are you?” We all know that etiquette requires us to answer with “I’m fine. How are you?” The line is so ubiquitous it’s become meaningless.

While many opt for completely doing away with the niceties and getting right down to business, for those of you too formal, here are some alternatives:

1. Something personal. “I read your article about [topic] on [website] last week. You hit the nail on the head when you said…”

2. Value their time. “I know you’re swamped, so I’ll be brief.”

3. Small Talk. “How are things in New York? I hope you’re keeping cool during the heat wave.” or “Hope your summer’s off to a great start. Is it vacation time yet?”. How about “Hey, it’s Friday! I hope you have some cool plans for the weekend.”

Well my dear friend, I’ll skip the formalities and just sign off… (we still have to work on the “Sincerely’s”)

Happy Tuesday & Happy Selling!

Kevin