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The "big-six"
Techniques for Getting Replies to Email
Wanna know a secret? I think the number of responses one gets
to messages posted in E-mail has a lot to do with the author's style or technique
of writing. If this is so, then techniques can be defined that would maximize
(or minimize) the number of responses one gets to his/her messages on average.
It's possible that some people's natural style of writing completes the thought
circle more fully than others.
Proceeding
on this premise, let's examine some techniques that might tend to avert closure
and therefore beg a response.
1) Asking questions
in the body of the message.
Rationale:
Perhaps the most obvious furthering mechanism in conversation is the question.
By definition, unless it's rhetorically couched, it begs an answer, and
answering requires further response.
2) Making bold,
contentious, assertive, or controversial statements in your message.
Rationale:
Strong assertions invite challenge. In order to challenge, reply messages are
written.
3) Referring to list
members by name.
Rationale:
Our names stand out for us and tend to produce affect depending upon the
context in which they're used. This affect could often translate into a reply
message expressing some furthering point (and perhaps reinforcing the
"mentioning behavior").
4) Flaming others.
Rationale:
The surest way to produce affect in fellow list member is to flame them. Flame
produces emotion which produces response.
5) Flattering others.
Rationale:
Please see #4 and reverse it.
6) Introducing new or
startling information.
Rationale:
New content often provokes discussion which will usually include your original
quote even if it's not addressing you directly.
Originally Posted on NetDynam Email List by Roy Winkler, February, 1996
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