12
Step Into the Straight-Shooter Style

Certain people at work always have their eyes on the prize and know exactly what they want and how they want to get there. These results-oriented individuals like to win and don’t like to waste time mincing words. Their e-mail style can be described as a Straight Shooter. Often feeling overwhelmed by work, the writer with this style:

• Gets to the point quickly.

• Makes direct requests.

• Uses forceful language.

• May pressure you to act quickly.

• Can be abrupt in tone.

• Does not invite feedback or discussion.

Consider this typical Straight Shooter-style e-mail.

Subject: Holiday Client Gifts
From: Jim Arrow
Date: November 20
To: Sales Team

Dear Sales Team:

I understand that some of you are planning on giving company holiday gifts to our largest clients this season.

I am not in favor of this for the following reasons:

1. Given our budget cuts, cost containment is necessary.

2. It is too difficult to decide where to cut the list.

If you feel you must do this, write me with your reason, the client, and what you want to give them, ASAP.

The best way to respond to this style is to:

• Give straight answers back, straight away.

• Write action-oriented e-mails that provide only relevant information.

• Be as concise as possible.

If a topic is more complex than you can quickly cover in an e-mail, you might want to schedule an in-person meeting.

Consider the response to a Straight Shooter–type e-mail following.

From: Tina Tiny
Subject: Holiday Client Gifts
Date: November 21
To: Jim Arrow

Dear Jim:

I would like an exception to the holiday gift policy.

My client, Jones Shirtsleeves, increased their busines with us by 500% this year. This represents a dollar amount of $50,000 to our company. I want to spend $50 on a gift.

I look forward to your response.