How to Write an Email Asking for Help

While not always the most comfortable of tasks, asking for help in the workplace is necessary to ensuring that projects are done correctly and assignments are completed on time. Sometimes you simply need another’s opinion on your work, while others you might have a more complicated request such as assistance in completing a task.

When asking for help via email, you’ll want the message to be brief, detailed, and non-obligatory. Being polite is a necessity, as making it clear why you need assistance from the recipient in particular.

Here’s what you need to know about asking for help via email.

How to Write an Email Asking for Help

When asking for help via email, make sure that the subject line you use is direct – tell the recipient exactly what you want from them so that the know what to expect going in. Depending on your familiarity with the recipient, you may want to include a brief introduction for yourself and your project.

Once the introduction is out of the way, you’ll want to clearly outline what it is you need, what the timeline is, and why you need the assistance. Give specifics for what you expect in terms of feedback or final products, as well as how much time you expect it to take. Explain why you’re reaching out to this person specifically for their assistance. Attach any necessary files and clarify what they are.

Finally, offer contact information and thank the recipient for their time. Make sure that your request is framed as a request and not a demand; being rude or demanding to your recipient is a good way to not receive the help you need on your assignment.

Help Email Templates

Here’s what an email asking for assistance might look like. Feel free to use and adjust this template to match your needs.

SUBJECT: Assistance With [Project] – [Quick Overview]

Hi [Name],

OPTIONAL: My name is [Name] and I am the [Title] for [Company]. We’ve been connected through [Connection] OR I found your contact information via [Method].

I’m reaching out to you today because I’m working on a project and would love your assistance/input/feedback. What I would ask of you is [Description]. I need this help because [Reason], and I’m asking you because I believe you are the best fit, as [Reason].

This project is [Description] and is due [Date], so I would love to hear back from you by [Date] if possible.

If you have the time for this task, please see the attached documentation for more details/for your review. If you have any questions, I would be happy to chat with you via [Method] at [Contact Information]. Thank you in advance for your time and, should you choose to offer it, your assistance.

Regards,

[Name]

As a side note, in some cases, you may need to adjust this template for formality. Use your best judgement based on previous interactions with your recipient and the general culture of your workplace.

 

Conor