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Email Etiquette Every Teen Should Know

Anna Vincent
Aug 7
2 min read

In today's world, most conversations happen through text messages and social media. But when it comes to talking with teachers, applying for jobs, scholarships, internships, volunteer opportunities, or even college, email is still one of the most important ways to communicate.


In fact, the National Association of Colleges and Employers (2024) reports that communication skills are consistently among the top qualities employers look for when hiring new employees. Learning how to write a professional email now can help you make a great first impression later.

Use a Professional Email Address

Your email address is one of the first things people see.

A professional email might look like:

Avoid email addresses with nicknames, slang, or inappropriate words. If you're applying for a job, "soccerstar99@email.com" makes a different impression than using your actual name.


Start with a Greeting

Beginning your email with a greeting shows respect.

Examples:

  • Good morning,

  • Hello Ms. Smith,

  • Hi Coach Jones,

Taking a few extra seconds to include a greeting can make your email feel much more professional.

Get to the Point

People are busy, so keep your email short and clear. Explain why you're emailing, include any important details, and avoid writing one long paragraph.


Be Respectful

Emails aren't text messages. Avoid abbreviations like "u," "idk," "lol," or "thx." Using complete sentences and polite language helps others take your message seriously (Purdue Online Writing Lab, n.d.).

Proofread Before You Hit Send

Before sending your email, take 30 seconds to check:

  • Spelling

  • Grammar

  • The person's name

  • Whether you attached any files you mentioned

One small mistake isn't the end of the world, but proofreading shows that you care.


End Professionally

Finish your email with a closing such as:

  • Thank you,

  • Best,

  • Sincerely,

Then include your name.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Forgetting the subject line

  2. Forgetting an attachment

  3. Typing in ALL CAPS

  4. Sending an email when you're upset

  5. Sending one-word emails like "Hey"


Before & After

Before:

hey i need help with the homework

After:

Good afternoon, Mrs. Smith,

I hope you're doing well. I had a question about yesterday's homework assignment. Could you please explain problem number four when you have a chance?

Thank you,

Jordan Brown

Which email would you be more likely to respond to?


Quick Email Checklist

Before you hit "Send," ask yourself:

  • Do I have a professional email address?

  • Did I include a subject line?

  • Did I start with a greeting?

  • Is my message short and clear?

  • Did I proofread it?

  • Did I include a closing and my name?


Writing a professional email doesn't have to be complicated. A few simple habits like being polite, clear, and respectful can help you stand out in school, at work, and in your future career.


Every email is an opportunity to make a positive first impression. Make it count.


References

Farnsworth, T. G., & Thompson, R. H. (2024). Improving undergraduate students' email etiquette with computer-based instruction. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 57(3), 751–762. https://doi.org/10.1002/jaba.1074

National Association of Colleges and Employers. (2024). Job outlook 2024. https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/trends-and-predictions/job-outlook/

Purdue Online Writing Lab. (n.d.). Professional, technical writing: Email etiquette. Purdue University. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/subject_specific_writing/


 
 
 

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