How to Write an Informal Email

Writing an informal email might seem straightforward, but when you want to strike the right balance between casual and clear, it can get a bit tricky. Whether you're reaching out to a friend, a family member, or even a professional contact in a less formal setting, there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your message comes across just right. Let's break it down into manageable steps and make informal email writing as natural as chatting with a friend over coffee.

Start with a Friendly Greeting

First impressions matter, even in emails. A warm, friendly greeting sets the tone for your entire message. Unlike formal emails where you might start with "Dear Sir/Madam," an informal email allows you to be a bit more relaxed. Here are some ways to start:

• "Hi [Name]," or "Hey [Name]," ‚Äì These are simple and friendly. Perfect for acquaintances or friends.
• "Hello [Name]," ‚Äì A bit more neutral, but still warm.
• "Hey there!" or "Hi there!" ‚Äì These work well if you're addressing a group or keeping it very casual.

Take, for example, emailing a friend about weekend plans:

Hi Sarah,

Hope you're having a great week so far!

Notice how the greeting is light-hearted and sets a positive tone right from the start. It’s like opening a door to a friendly chat.

Get to the Point, But Keep It Light

Once you've greeted your recipient, dive into the purpose of your email. Unlike formal emails, you don’t need a lengthy introduction. Just a sentence or two to set the context. Keep the language light and conversational.

Here's an example of asking a friend for advice:

Hi Mike,

I’m thinking about finally tackling that home project we talked about last month. Any chance you could give me some tips?

This gets straight to the point while maintaining a friendly tone. It’s like saying, “Hey, let’s cut to the chase, but keep it fun!”

Add Personal Touches

Personal touches make your email feel genuine and thoughtful. Mention something specific to your relationship or a shared experience. It shows that you remember details about your recipient, which can strengthen your connection.

For instance, if you’re reaching out to a colleague you’ve had a funny shared experience with, you might say:

Hey Alex,

Remember that time we tried to fix the coffee machine together? I’m having another coffee crisis—thought you might have some ideas!

This reference makes the email feel tailor-made for Alex, not just a generic message.

Use Simple and Clear Language

Clarity is key in any email. While you want to keep it informal, avoid using overly complex words or jargon that might confuse the reader. Think of how you’d explain something to a friend over lunch—clear, concise, and to the point.

Let’s say you’re inviting someone to a casual gathering:

Hey Jamie,

We’re having a little get-together at my place this Saturday at 7 PM. It’d be awesome if you could make it!

The language is straightforward, and there’s no room for misinterpretation. It’s all about making sure your message is received as intended.

Embrace a Casual Tone

The beauty of informal emails is the freedom to express yourself naturally. Feel free to use contractions, emojis, or even a bit of humor if it fits your relationship with the recipient. Just be mindful of keeping it appropriate for the person you’re emailing.

For example, emailing a friend about a shared hobby might look like this:

Hi Anna,

🎨 Just finished that painting I was telling you about! Can’t wait for you to see it.

The emoji and casual tone make it feel like a friendly chat, not just an email exchange.

End on a Positive Note

Your closing should leave the reader with a good feeling. Even if the email's purpose is to ask for something, end with a thank you or a positive remark. It wraps up the conversation nicely.

Here’s how you might end an email to a friend:

Looking forward to catching up soon!

Cheers,
Chris

Or, if you’re writing to a colleague:

Thanks a bunch, and see you at the meeting on Friday!

Best,
Jordan

These closings are friendly and encourage future interaction.

Use Spell for a Quick Review

Even informal emails can benefit from a quick review to catch any typos or unclear sentences. Since we know Spell can help draft and polish documents quickly, it’s perfect for giving your email a once-over before you hit send. You can even use it to generate a draft if you’re stuck on how to start.

With Spell, you can simply describe what you want to say, and it helps you craft a coherent message, saving you time and effort.

Be Mindful of the Length

Informal emails are typically shorter and to the point. People appreciate brevity, especially if they’re skimming through emails on a busy day. That said, make sure you’re including all necessary information.

For instance, if you're arranging a meetup, include all the details, but don’t overdo it:

Hey Jake,

Let’s grab coffee next week. How about Wednesday afternoon? Let me know what works for you.

This message is concise yet contains all the necessary info for Jake to respond easily.

Don’t Overthink It

Finally, remember that informal emails are meant to be just that. Informal. Don’t stress too much about getting every word perfect. The goal is to communicate in a way that feels authentic to you and comfortable for the reader.

If you find yourself stuck, try using Spell to generate some initial ideas. It can help you get past the blank-page syndrome and move forward with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Writing an informal email is all about balancing clarity with friendliness. By keeping it light, personal, and straightforward, you can craft messages that resonate with your readers. And if you're ever in a pinch, Spell is there to help streamline your writing process, making it easier to connect with people quickly and effectively.