ex?plic?it ?adjective
- fully and clearly expressed or demonstrated; leaving nothing merely implied; unequivocal: explicit instructions; explicit language.
- clearly developed or formulated: explicit knowledge; explicit belief.
- definite and unreserved in expression; outspoken: He was quite explicit as to what he expected us to do for him.
Now that we are clear on the definition of explicit, let’s apply this to your emails. If you receive an email that asks several questions — answer each one, point-by-point. Don’t just hit reply and type a general statement at the top of the email that doesn’t cover all the issues presented.
Explicitness in your email communications helps to avoid misunderstandings and confusion. If you top-post, (the bad habit of just typing a cryptic reply at the top of an email without including any email etiquette) you are taking the lazy way out and showing the person who emailed you that you are not capable of succinct replies.
Learn how to, and practice, the down-editing of your replies to avoid unnecessary back and forths for clarification. Down-editing will also show that it is important to you to be a clear communicator and will speak volumes as to what it will be like to communicate with you. PIA or joy?
Don’t just reply with what point or info you want to relay — reply to the specifics of the email that was sent to you. Not doing so will demonstrate a lack of courtesy for those who email you causing them to have to send an additional unnecessary email for clarification.
Being explicit will not only help in your personal day-to-day communications but in business emails as well! When you reply without displaying this level of attention to detail you undermine your potential for success as well as reflect your level of professionalism.
So take the time to type clearly and cover each point. You’ll find those you email will most definitely appreciate that approach!
