E-mail is still one of the most powerful methods of communication, business development and marketing. Many estimate e-mail is second only to search traffic. Are you using it effectively?

Even with all the new methods of communication developing, e-mail is still the most universal. But, without a conscious, productive approach to e-mail, you could be missing out on relationships and opportunities.

First, don’t send spam (unsolicited e-mail) to people you don’t know. It is especially important not to do it from your personal account. Your account could be blocked from important networks. For example, if Comcast flags your e-mail as spam you may not be able to communicate with associates, friends and family on their system. Use a service such as Vertical Response, Icontact or Constant Contact to deliver bulk e-mails.

Use descriptive headlines in the subject line of your e-mails. Make it easy for people to know why you are contacting them. Good headlines improve e-mail open rates. Don’t leave subject lines blank.

When you receive an important e-mail, acknowledge it. It’s amazing how many bad situations develop every day because the sender thought the receiver received an e-mail, when they did not.  When sending important information, it is acceptable to ask for confirmation.

Check spelling and grammar. And — OMG — stop using text speak in professional e-mails.

Avoid using Web-based e-mail systems such as Gmail, Hotmail, or Yahoo for business. It looks very unprofessional. Stay away from unprofessional e-mail names, such as SexGoddess09.

Streamline your e-mail. Make sure your e-mail goes to one location. This includes old e-mails. Forward each address to a central location and make sure the return address is your professional address.

I’ve needlessly confused many people through the years. It was not uncommon for my clients to have multiple e-mails listed for me. I would have different e-mails for home, studio and the road. Big mistake.

Now I have the easiest e-mail in the world. If you know my name you know my email. It’s rosh@ rosh.com. Everyone sends to and receives messages from that address, although my central location is based with my local cable company. It’s worth getting all e-mails under control to create the easiest system possible.

Use signatures in your e-mail. It’s one of the best marketing practices available to you and a great convenience to your friends and associates. Share your e-mail address, phone numbers, Web sites and social media locations.

Keep e-mail messages short and the design simple. Remember many people are viewing e-mail on smart phones.

Remember people generally don’t consider forwarded jokes and trivial information as communication.

Finally, purchase or develop an archive system for your e-mails.

What would you add to this list?

Rosh