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The CLEAR Framework: How to Write Emails That Get Action

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By Destyn Dagle | March 21 2025

🚀 Tired of long, confusing emails? Use The CLEAR Framework to ensure your messages are concise, structured, and action-oriented—helping you get the responses you need!


The CLEAR Framework:

Concise – Keep it short & to the point.
Logical – Structure your email for easy reading.
Empathetic – Write with a positive, considerate tone.
Action-Oriented – Clearly state what you need.
Respectful – Be polite, professional, and clear.


✉️ 1. Concise – Keep it Clear & Direct

📌 Write a strong subject line (e.g., “Project Update: Q2 Milestones Completed”).
📌 Get to the point quickly – Start with the key message.
📌 Avoid unnecessary details – Use bullet points or short paragraphs.

🔥 Example:
❌ “I just wanted to check if you had a chance to look at my last email. I sent the proposal last week, and I know you’re busy, but I wanted to follow up and see if we could discuss it.”
✅ “Following up on the proposal I sent last week—would you be available for a quick discussion on Thursday?”


📝 2. Logical – Structure Your Email for Readability

Use the BRAIN Technique for clear formatting:
🔹 Background – Provide context.
🔹 Request – State the purpose.
🔹 Additional Info – Relevant details.
🔹 Inquiry – Ask necessary questions.
🔹 Next Steps – Suggest follow-up actions.

🔥 Example:
Subject: Proposal Review & Next Steps
B: “After reviewing the attached proposal, I have a few key points to discuss.”
R: “Could we schedule a quick call to finalize the details?”
A: “I’ve attached the document with highlights on key sections.”
I: “Would Thursday at 3 PM work for you?”
N: “Let me know your availability or suggest a different time.”


💡 3. Empathetic – Tailor Your Message to the Recipient

📌 Use their name (“Hi [Name],”).
📌 Acknowledge their perspective (“I appreciate your time reviewing this.”).
📌 Keep the tone positive (“Looking forward to your insights” instead of “Please respond ASAP.”).

🔥 Example:
❌ “You haven’t responded to my last email.”
✅ “I wanted to follow up in case my previous email got lost in your inbox.”


✅ 4. Action-Oriented – Be Clear About What You Need

📌 Clearly state your request (approval, feedback, meeting, etc.).
📌 Use action-driven wording (“Please confirm by Friday.”).
📌 Set deadlines if necessary.

🔥 Example Closing:
✅ “Please review the attached report and share your feedback by Wednesday. Let me know if you have any questions!”


🎯 5. Respectful – Keep it Professional & Polite

📌 Use professional closings:
✅ “Best regards,” (formal)
✅ “Looking forward to your thoughts,” (collaborative)
✅ “Thanks in advance for your time,” (grateful)

📌 Choose polite phrasing:
❌ “I need you to…”
✅ “Would you mind…”

📌 Proofread before sending to ensure clarity and professionalism.


📌 Examples for Different Situations

🔹 Professional Email (Client Follow-Up)

Subject: Proposal Review – Next Steps
Hi [Client’s Name],
I hope you’re doing well. Just following up on the proposal I sent last week. Would you be available for a quick call on Thursday to discuss?
Let me know what works best for you. Looking forward to your thoughts!
Best,
[Your Name]


🔹 Personal Email (Catching Up with a Friend)

Subject: Let’s Catch Up!
Hey [Friend’s Name],
It’s been a while! Hope you’re doing great. I’d love to catch up—are you free for a coffee this weekend? Let me know what works for you!
Talk soon,
[Your Name]


🔹 Networking Email (New Connection)

Subject: Great Connecting at [Event]
Hi [Name],
It was great meeting you at [Event]! I really enjoyed our conversation about [topic]. Let’s stay in touch—would love to connect again and hear more about your work.
Looking forward to keeping in touch!
Best,
[Your Name]


🔹 Job Inquiry (Reaching Out About a Position)

Subject: Inquiry About [Job Title] Opening
Hi [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I recently came across the [Job Title] position at [Company Name] and am very interested. I’d love to learn more about the role and see if my experience aligns with your needs. Would you be open to a quick chat?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Best regards,
[Your Name]


🚀 Before Sending Your Next Email, Ask Yourself:

Did I keep it clear & concise?
Is the tone professional & positive?
Did I structure it for easy reading?
Is my request actionable?

By following The CLEAR Framework, your emails will be effective, professional, and well-received—helping you communicate with confidence. 🔥✨

💬 What’s your biggest email challenge? Drop it in the comments! ⬇️

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