Far too many assume an informal of a tone in their business emails. Yes, with those you know very well, you can be less formal if you like.
But for all other business emails, you should be as formal as possible. That is until the situation clearly dictates otherwise. Especially with new contacts.
Dress to Impress
Informality in business email is like wearing a wrinkled suit, a tie with a stain or an outfit that is too tight or revealing. People notice you but for all the wrong reasons.
We all know folks who do this in our office or workplace. What is the perception they provide?
When you email a new client, associate or partner, if you are informal (not addressing with respect, using proper grammar, sentence structure, spell check, etc.) your inquiry may not be taken as seriously. Nor will the perception of what you will be like to work with or do business with be positive one.
When emailing a group or new business contacts that don’t know you very well and being overly informal can have a negative impact. Those that don’t know you may make incorrect assumptions as to your educational level or your expertise about the topic at hand.
Professionals act and communicate like professionals at all times. Regardless of mode of communication or venue. That’s because they are professionals.
It will never cause any harm to use the epitome of formality when forging new business and professional relationships. Let the other side guide you on setting the tone for their ongoing communications formality. Combined with your discretion and you will know when a more informal approach is acceptable.
Business is all about perceptions. That is why everyone spruces up their appearance off-line. Consider your business emails part of your online business wardrobe.