Over the last few months I’ve been talking about writing quite often. One of the main takeaways I normally convey is this: you should (almost) never start from a blank page. Always, always have a clear structure first.
Templates usually help, and I have several of those for all the kinds of write-ups I regularly do. When it’s time to send a business email, whether I know the recipient or not, I usually try structuring the text using the SCRAP model.
What does SCRAP stand for?
A message that’s been put together according to the SCRAP formula has these ingredients, in this exact order:
Situation: where we’re at right now.
Complication: the problem that needs to be dealt with.
Resolution: your proposed way to fix the problem.
Action: the action you want the reader to take (a click, or even a simple answer).
Politeness: the end, on a friendly note.
Here’s a simple example. Alex and Sam are two random people who briefly met at a meetup. In this email, Sam is doing a classic networking follow-up and the SCRAP model fits perfectly:
Hey Alex,
Lovely to meet you yesterday at the Product meetup! Glad we were able to chat before the schedule got underway. ➡️ SITUATION
I remember you mentioned [CHALLENGE], which is far too common in our industry. ➡️ COMPLICATION
Since that’s exactly what our team does, I’d be really happy to have a chat with you and explore ways to work together. ➡️ RESOLUTION
It would be great to schedule a Skype call earlier next week. Does Monday 10AM work for you? ➡️ ACTION
Looking forward to hearing from you. ➡️ POLITENESS
Cheers!
Sam
Why does it work?
As a template, it works by default—it gives you a framework with five content blocks to fill, so that you can create a first version quickly and painlessly. As a message, it’s short and to the point, and prompts the recipient to perform the intended action.
Thanks!
I’ll adopt is ASAP… it’s a great idea
Glad to hear that, and thanks for the comment, Nicola!