One of the major reasons why internet has become so popular is the use of e-mail. Everyone uses e-mail for both personal and business purposes. The UCLA Center for Communication Policy conducted a survey in 2001 and has found that 88% of internet users use the internet for e-mailing. Interestingly, 90% of these mails are business e-mails. In fact, e-mail marketing is a favorite method that most online merchants use to gain customers.

Since electronic mail is now considered as a major form of communication, it is important to know the proper etiquette when sending business e-mails. Here are some tips:

Show Courtesy. Courtesy in regular mails and e-mails is very important. When writing a business email, use appropriate terms (Mr./Mrs./Dr.) when addressing a person. Don't address a person by his first name alone.

Also, don't forget to use words like Please, Thank You and other terms that show respect and decency. Always end your e-mails with an appropriate closing such as Sincerely, Respectfully, Best Regards, etc.

Don't use abbreviations. It's a common mistake that people make when writing e-mails. Since chat messages and text messages are often written in an abbreviated manner, some people become so used to writing in abbreviations.

For instance, the word ?you? may be written as ?U?, because as ?bcoz?, please as ?plz?, etc. Although it's okay to abbreviate some words like Mr., Inc., etc., you should be aware on how to write a professional business letter.

Use a formal e-mail address. When sending a business e-mail or a letter of application, make sure that you're using an account with a formal or decent e-mail address. Save the more outrageous or funny e-mail addresses when e-mailing your friends or family.

Be Professional. Read your e-mail a few times before hitting the submit button. Check for any grammatical errors or typos. If you're not very good at spelling, then use a spell checker. Avoid using slang or street language. Use formal English when writing a business e-mail.

Don't Use Emoticons. Emoticons are the round, yellow faces you see in your messenger and your e-mail composer. If you're writing to your friend or your family, you may use them all you like. However, when writing business e-mails, it's best not to use emoticons especially if you're sending an e-mail for the first time.

Use a friendly tone. Using formal English does not mean your letter has to sound so rigid. Of course, you can use a relaxed, friendly tone. Just remember not to get too relaxed as to forget to courtesy altogether.

Don't Send Attachments. Don't send attachments unless they're needed. For example, if an employer requires a resume or copies of sample work, then you can send attachments. However, make sure that they don't contain viruses or malicious programs. Otherwise, it's better to always ask permission first before sending attachments.

Get to your point. Don't write very long e-mails that beat around the bush. Explain your message clearly and directly without leaving out the important details.