In 2016, @ETIQhour will concentrate on the top 15 Business Etiquette Essentials every future leader will want to know. Each fortnight a new Essential has been released: Essential #6: Double check your email before you hit ‘send’.

We’ve all been cursed with the ‘send’ regret. You’ve typed an email in anger or haste clicked ‘send’ and then it’s too late to take it back. Have you ever ‘forwarded’ on an email and then later realised you sent it back to that person telling them exactly what you think of them? I hope I can stop you from doing that before it’s too late.

Some steps to think about before you hit ‘send’.

1. Introduce yourself. Every email makes an impression and it starts with the “from” field and your subject line. Make sure your name is complete and spelled with initial caps, (not all caps; not all lowercase)

2. Write well. Start your email with a Subject line that makes it clear what the email is about.

3. Ensure your grammar is on-point. While we’re on the subject of communication, always check your grammar on your emails http://bit.ly/1r4n4Qr

4. Know your customer. Remember, emails are not texts. Instant messages are not emails. Have the courtesy to write for your client. For example, your business partner or boss is not your BFF.

5. Reply with care. Reserve replying all unless it’s absolutely necessary

6. Ask about attachments. Don’t send large files as attachments without first asking the recipient.

7. Smartphones make it even easier to stay in touch, but it means composing emails on a much smaller device.

8. Double Check the Subject Line. The subject line is the first thing your client will see when it arrives in their inbox.

9. Double Check the “From” Name and Email, ensure you’re sending your email from you, as a person, not as a company.

10. Double Check Your Content. While you should of course check for spelling errors and grammatical errors

11. Since the advent of spell check, there is no excuse for typos.

12. Do a quick read to make sure the meaning and tone are what you wish to convey. And no smileys, please.