Email guide
Email Too Passive
Passive email wording makes the reader do more work than they should.
The fix is usually simple: make the ask clearer, keep the tone polite, and remove hedging that weakens the point.
Quick answer
Use a direct ask
The reader should see the next step without guessing what you want.
Keep the tone polite
Direct does not need to sound harsh or demanding.
Remove hedging
Phrases like maybe, just wondering, or sort of can weaken the point.
What passive email wording looks like
Weak vs better
Weak
Just wanted to check in and see if you maybe had a chance to look at the thing I sent earlier.
Better
Following up on the idea I sent earlier. If it would help, I can send a shorter version with the key points only.
Common passive email problems
Tools to improve this
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