Which factor should be prioritized when writing an email to a colleague?

Prioritizing clarity of the message when writing an email to a colleague is crucial because it ensures that the recipient understands the intent and content of the communication without confusion. Clarity involves using straightforward language, organizing thoughts logically, and eliminating ambiguity, which fosters effective collaboration and minimizes the risk of misunderstandings. When the message is clear, it enables the recipient to respond appropriately and contributes to more efficient workflows.

In contrast, while the length of the email can be important, a brief email that lacks clarity can lead to misinterpretation. The use of jargon, although sometimes useful in conveying specific concepts quickly among colleagues familiar with the terminology, can create barriers if the recipient is not well-versed in that jargon. Completeness is also valuable, but it should not come at the expense of clarity; a complete message that is difficult to understand does not serve its purpose effectively.