Have you ever found yourself staring at the blank screen, unsure of how to begin your email without sounding boastful or arrogant? Writing an email that is both professional and humble can be a tricky task to master. But don’t worry, you don’t have to be gifted with natural humility to create a well-crafted email. With a few simple tips and examples, you can learn how to write a humble email that is sure to impress your recipient. In this article, you will learn practical strategies for crafting a humble email that will leave a positive and respectful impression on your reader. Plus, you’ll have access to examples to help guide you as you write, allowing you to easily tailor your email to your specific situation. So, let’s dive into the art of humble email writing!
The Best Structure for Writing a Humble Email, Using Tim Ferriss’ Writing Style
If you’re looking to send an email that conveys humility, then it’s important to ensure that you’re writing it in a way that is both sincere and respectful. Tim Ferriss is known for his effective and concise writing style, and by following the below structure, you can craft an email that is both humble and impactful:
1. Start with a Personal Touch
Begin your email with a personal touch, such as ‘Hi [Name],’ or ‘Dear [Name].’ This simple greeting can make a big difference in how the recipient perceives your message. It shows that you’ve taken the time to consider whom you’re writing to and acknowledge them on a personal level.
2. Express Your Gratitude
The next step is to express your gratitude. This can be done in a simple sentence, such as ‘Thank you for taking the time to connect with me,’ or ‘I appreciate your willingness to share your insights with me.’ By showing gratitude, you’ll immediately establish a sense of humility and appreciation.
3. Share Your Purpose
Next, share your purpose for the email. Be concise and clear about what you want to achieve. For example, if you’re asking for advice, state that upfront. If you’re looking to collaborate, be specific about what you’re proposing. Clarity is key when it comes to showing humility.
4. Highlight the Recipient’s Expertise
To further express your respect and appreciation, highlight the recipient’s expertise. This can be achieved by mentioning specific achievements or accolades they’ve received, or by simply acknowledging them as an authority on the subject. By doing so, you show that you respect their time, knowledge, and experience.
5. Close with Gratitude and a Call to Action
Finally, close your email with gratitude and a call to action. For example, ‘Thank you again for your time and insights. I would love to discuss this further with you,’ or ‘I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing back from you.’ Make sure to end on a positive and respectful note.
By following this structure, you can write an email that conveys humility, sincerity, and respect. Remember that simplicity and clarity are key, and always take the time to show gratitude and acknowledge the recipient’s expertise.
7 Sample Humble Emails for Different Reasons
Sample 1: Request for a Job Reference
Hello [Name of Referee],
I hope you are keeping well. I was wondering if I could ask for a reference I can use for my job search. I am in the process of applying for different positions and I believe your recommendation would support my application.
As you know, I worked under your supervision for three years and was privileged to learn a lot from you. Your feedback on my skills and experience would be invaluable in helping me pursue my career goals. If there is anything else you need from me, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Sending Thanks for Mentorship
Dear [Mentor’s Name],
I wanted to take this opportunity to express my sincerest gratitude for the mentorship you willingly provided me. I have valued the time we spent together discussing my career progress and development. Your guidance, support and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping my professional outlook.
It is inspiring to know that someone as accomplished as you is willing to take the time to invest in my growth and development. As I move forward in my career, I will always remember your guidance and appreciate the lessons I learned from you.
Once again, thank you for everything.
Warmly,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Apologizing for a Mistake
Dear [Addressee’s Name],
I am writing this email to offer my sincerest apologies for the error I made on the last project we worked on together. I understand that my mistake may have inconvenienced you and caused frustration, and for that, I am truly sorry.
I acknowledge that the mistake was mine, and I accept full responsibility for it. I am committed to rectifying it and ensuring that it will not occur again in the future.
Thank you for your understanding, and please let me know if there is anything else I can do to make things right.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Declining an Invitation or Offer
Dear [Addressee’s Name],
Thank you for the invitation/offe r you extended to me. I appreciate your consideration and kind words.
Regrettably, I have to decline your offer/invitation at this time, as I have a prior commitment/other obligations that will make it impossible for me to participate.
Once again, thank you for considering me and your kind words. I wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
Warm regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Requesting a Meeting
Dear [Addressee’s Name],
I hope you’re well. I’m writing to inquire about your availability to meet with me.
I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to speak with you about [reason for the meeting]. I believe your perspective and insights will be valuable in helping me achieve my goals and/or tackle my challenges.
If possible, please let me know what dates and times would be convenient for you to meet.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Best regards,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Acknowledging a Job Offer
Dear [Addressee’s Name],
I hope you are doing well. I am writing this email to thank you for offering me the position of [position name] at [company name].
After careful consideration, I am pleased to accept the job offer. I am very excited to join the [company/team] and look forward to making significant contributions to the organization.
Thank you again for the opportunity, and I look forward to starting work.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Expressing Gratitude for a Gift
Dear [Gift-Giver’s Name],
I hope this email finds you well and in good spirits. I am writing to thank you for the thoughtful and generous gift you sent me.
I appreciate your kind gesture and the effort you put into selecting the gift. It is truly amazing that you thought of me and took the time to show your appreciation.
Thank you once again for your generosity and thoughtfulness, it means a lot to me.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Humble Email
Writing emails that come across as humble and respectful can be an asset in both your personal and professional life. Here are some tips to help you craft a humble email:
1. Begin with a friendly greeting: Start your email with a warm greeting, such as “Hello” or “Hi”. This shows that you are acknowledging the recipient and sets a positive tone for the rest of the message.
2. Show appreciation: If you are emailing someone to thank them for something, make sure to express your gratitude in your message. Acknowledge the effort they went to and be specific about what you are thanking them for, this shows that you are not taking them for granted and you value their efforts.
3. Be respectful: Use polite words to show respect and never write an email when you are angry as it can lead you to use harsh words. Avoid writing long cryptic sentences, write directly and with clarity.
4. Be confident but not arrogant: When stating your point, be confident and clear but avoid sounding arrogant. For example, instead of beginning with “I know you’re wrong”, you could say “I understand your viewpoint, but I have a different opinion”. This shows that you are confident in your own stance but are still respecting their opinion.
5. Use a friendly closing: As with the start of the message, end on a positive note. A simple “Thank you” or “Best regards” shows appreciation and respect, and can leave a good impression on the recipient.
In summary, writing a humble email is all about balancing respect and confidence. By following these tips, you can make sure that your emails come across as respectful and grateful, while still asserting your own perspective in a clear and confident way.
FAQs on Writing a Humble Email
How can I make my email sound humble?
Use words such as “please”, “thank you”, and “I appreciate” to show politeness and gratitude. Avoid using words that make you sound demanding or entitled.
What should I avoid when writing a humble email?
Avoid using a condescending tone, making sarcastic remarks, or using passive-aggressive language. These could come across as insincere and offensive.
Should I apologize in my email?
If you’ve made a mistake or caused inconvenience to the recipient, it’s appropriate to apologize. However, avoid excessive apologies that make you appear overly apologetic or insincere.
How should I begin my email?
Start your email with a polite greeting such as “Hello” or “Dear”. Use the recipient’s name if possible. If you’re unsure about the preferred salutation, use a more formal one.
How long should my email be?
Keep your email brief and to the point. Avoid lengthy explanations or irrelevant details. Write only what’s necessary to convey your message clearly and respectfully.
Is it necessary to end my email with a closing remark?
Yes, it’s polite to end your email with a closing remark such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards”. You should also include your name and any contact information that’s relevant.
What should I do if I receive a reply that’s not humble or polite?
Remain calm and respectful. If the reply upsets you or is unprofessional, take a break and respond after you’ve had time to compose yourself. Avoid responding in a confrontational or defensive manner. Instead, express your concerns in a clear but humble way.
Keep It Humble and Keep in Touch
Now that you know how to write a humble email, you can make your communication more effective, professional, and respected. Remember to always be polite, clear, and concise in your emails. It’s also important to show humility and consideration. Thank you for reading this article, I hope you found it helpful. Don’t forget to check back for more insightful tips and tricks! Keep in touch!