Your boss is busy. Sending an email might be more efficient than waiting until you can schedule a meeting, but how can you make sure your manager will read it and respond? Stick to these basics:
• Get to the point. Short emails are easier to read, digest, and act on. Don’t waste time with irrelevant details. Be polite, but dive right into the subject.
• Define the outcome you’re looking for. Tell the boss exactly what you want to do, or what you want him or her to do. If you need a decision, ask for it explicitly. If you have a plan, ask for a direct yes-or-no response.
• Use the subject line. Tell your boss what the email is about at the top. A subject line like “Decision needed on Smith project” prepares him or her to address the subject right away.
• Don’t pester. Before sending that email consider whether someone else can help you. If you’re asking your supervisor for assistance all the time he or she will doubt your ability or maybe start ignoring your messages.