Wait, How Do I Write This Email? by Danny Rubin Summary

1. Front-load requests in work emails to respect the reader’s time (Rubin’s “Don’t Bury the Lead” rule).
2. Use personalized subject lines with mutual connections or interests for higher response rates.
3. Replace generic greetings with etiquette-driven openings like “Good morning” and formal titles.
4. Structure dense information with bullet points and white space for better email readability.
5. Employ Rubin’s 100+ templates for networking, job applications, and LinkedIn outreach.
6. Add authentic details about recipients to transform generic emails into memorable messages.
7. Pair confidence with brevity using Rubin’s “assertive version” email framework.
8. Include storytelling in cover letters to showcase career journey and problem-solving skills.
9. Use Rubin’s Propel tool for real-time etiquette feedback on subject lines and tone.
10. Replace “pretty please” requests with direct asks positioned early in emails.
11. Mirror organizational hierarchies with proper titles (Mr./Ms.) in formal workplace communication.
12. Send follow-up emails that reference prior interactions to strengthen professional relationships.

About the Author of Wait, How Do I Write This Email?

Danny Rubin, author of Wait, How Do I Write This Email?, is an acclaimed screenwriter, educator, and communication strategist renowned for blending storytelling expertise with practical professional guidance.

Best known as the co-writer of the iconic film Groundhog Day—a BAFTA Award-winning comedy celebrated for its wit and philosophical depth—Rubin has spent decades mastering the art of concise, impactful writing.

His work spans screenplays, stage adaptations (including the Olivier Award-winning Groundhog Day: The Musical), and academic instruction as a former Briggs-Copeland Lecturer at Harvard University.

Rubin’s transition to email and professional communication advice stems from his career crafting narratives for film, theater, and education, offering readers tools to refine clarity and persuasion in daily interactions. A frequent lecturer at institutions like Sundance Institute and Columbia College, Rubin distills complex ideas into accessible frameworks.

Groundhog Day remains a cultural touchstone, ranked among the American Film Institute’s top comedies and adapted into a Broadway hit.

FAQs About Wait, How Do I Write This Email?

What is Wait, How Do I Write This Email? by Danny Rubin about?

Wait, How Do I Write This Email? provides over 100 customizable templates for networking, job applications, LinkedIn outreach, and professional documents like resumes and cover letters. Danny Rubin emphasizes concise communication, turning routine emails into opportunities to showcase professionalism and build relationships. The book also teaches core writing principles for clarity and impact, making it a practical guide for career advancement.

Who should read Wait, How Do I Write This Email??

This book is ideal for students, recent graduates, career changers, entrepreneurs, and professionals seeking to improve their written communication. It’s widely used in schools, workforce programs, and by military veterans transitioning to civilian careers. Anyone needing to craft cold emails, follow-ups, or LinkedIn messages will benefit from Rubin’s structured approach.

Is Wait, How Do I Write This Email? worth reading?

Yes—the book saves time, reduces stress, and boosts confidence in professional communication. Its actionable templates help users navigate complex scenarios, like applying for unadvertised jobs or reconnecting with alumni. Educators also use its lesson plans to teach networking and writing skills, reinforcing its practical value.

How does Danny Rubin’s expertise enhance the book’s advice?

Rubin combines his background in screenwriting (Groundhog Day) with years of teaching communications at Harvard and other institutions. His focus on storytelling and brevity helps readers craft messages that stand out, while his templates reflect real-world scenarios tested in classrooms and workplaces.

What LinkedIn strategies does the book recommend?

Rubin includes templates for LinkedIn connection requests, profile optimization, and follow-ups. He advises personalizing messages by referencing shared affiliations or interests and using concise subject lines to increase open rates. These strategies help users build meaningful professional networks.

How does the book approach resume and cover letter writing?

It advocates for a one-page resume with bullet-point achievements and a storytelling-driven cover letter. Rubin emphasizes highlighting specific examples of problem-solving or leadership rather than listing generic duties. This approach aligns with modern hiring trends favoring narrative-driven applications.

Does Wait, How Do I Write This Email? address cold outreach?

Yes—Rubin provides scripts for cold emails to potential mentors, alumni, or hiring managers. Key tips include starting with a clear purpose, mentioning mutual connections, and ending with a low-pressure call to action (e.g., “Would you have 15 minutes to share advice?”).

What writing principles does Danny Rubin emphasize?

The book stresses brevity, audience-focused language, and professionalism. Rubin discourages overly formal tone and encourages editing drafts ruthlessly. A core lesson: treat every email as a chance to demonstrate competence and build rapport.

How does the book help with job searching?

It includes templates for post-interview thank-you notes, salary negotiation emails, and follow-ups after job rejections. Rubin also teaches how to leverage LinkedIn to identify hiring managers and tailor applications to company values.

Are there resources for educators in the book?

Yes—four sets of classroom activities and lesson plans cover networking, job searches, LinkedIn, and writing skills. These resources make the book a popular choice for high school, college, and workforce development programs.

What makes Wait, How Do I Write This Email? unique?

Unlike generic writing guides, it combines templates with foundational communication strategies. Rubin’s focus on real-world applicability—like handling delicate conversations or career pivots—ensures relevance across industries and experience levels.

How does the book handle follow-up communication?

Rubin provides scripts for post-meeting follow-ups, reminder emails, and reconnecting after long gaps. He advises balancing persistence with respect for the recipient’s time, often suggesting a “three-touch” rule before moving on.