What Are Some Friendly Email Opening Lines?

The one thing school failed to teach us all is how to properly write an email. I cannot tell you how frustrated I was when I had to start writing emails. Then years later I look through my sent tab on Google and think, "how embarrassing."

Being able to write the perfect email can make an impact. Depending on what field you work in, you might be pitching to a potential client or closing a business deal. Word choice, grammar, and language are a reflection of you in written form.

Writing can be complicated. How many times have you sat there scratching your head writing an essay for school or an imessage to that guy (or girl) you like? You want your words to pack a punch, but the thing is we always think that the body of the writing is the most important. Of course, it is, but so is the first line.

That first sentence can make or break anything. If the beginning of your writing is dry or bland it makes a bad impression. So, what are some friendly email opening lines? Let's find out!

Informal vs. Formal

We know that we have to adjust our language whether we're in the office or out with friends. Writing an e-mail works the same way. You wouldn't use language appropriate for texting in an e-mail to the CEO of a corporation. That's why it's important to make sure that your friendly opening lines reflect that. You want to give the reader a hook and make them actually want to respond.

Formal Opening Lines

Here are some opening ideas for those in the corporate world or freelancers who are trying to pitch to a brand:

• Allow me to introduce myself
• I hope this email finds you well
• It's great to hear from you
• I am emailing in regards to
• Thanks for getting back to me so quickly

Read more: 21 Great Opening Sentences for Any Type of Email

Informal Opening Lines

These are casual opening lines if you already have a working relationship with the recipient. They're also great conversation starters, in general, to make the context more comfortable:

• Good afternoon
• Good morning
• How was your weekend?
• How are you?

Follow-Ups

The next kind of opening line is for those of you that are trying to secure a job, business deal, brand deal, or partnership. This is what you need to use when you want to make sure that everyone is on board:

• I wanted to touch base with you on
• I'm checking in on
• Can I get an update on
• As we discussed on our call
• As we discussed in the meeting

Personal Opening Lines

This section is dedicated to the personal opening lines. These are what you would use to email a friend, your aunt, or a client that you are closer to. These opening lines show that you are taking interest in someone's life and people love that:

• I hope you enjoyed your weekend/vacation
• How did the project turn out
• Congratulations on.... (promotion, wedding, engagement, a child being born, new house)
• It was great to see you at (insert event name)

This (article or social media post) made me think of you, check it out.

Ideas for a friendly e-mail opening line is a broad topic. The friendliness of the opener should always be adjusted to the setting. Keep in mind that having the right friendly e-mail opening line can make or break the interaction.