What not to write.

DO:

Get the tone right.If you're unsure, err on the side of having a formal opening and closing address, and a slightly more cheerful tone in the main body of the e-mail.

Pick up the phoneto apologise if you make a serious mistake in an e-mail. An e-mail apology can seem insincere or inadequate. Remember that e-mail is a record. It can be forwarded and/or used against you.

Mirror the styleof the e-mail you have been sent. If the sender uses emoticons, use them in the reply. Make the subject lineof your e-mail as specific as possible. The "Re: Re: Re:" subject line should always be avoided. Make sure your e-mail request is reasonable.

Send your CV from an inappropriate address. Your prospective employer is unlikely to be impressed by an e-mail from totallywasted@gmail.com.

Ever do anything electronically that you would like others to do to you in person. Write an e-mail that's ridiculously vague. Assume familiarity. When e-mailing, err on the side of caution.

Ever send anything through on company mail that the recipient would be embarrassed to have their company read.