Tips to Improve Your Email E-tiquette – Part 2

Here’s part two of email suggestions and tips to help you communicate better:

Never send an email when you’re upset—Take a step away from your computer and consider how to best resolve an issue.

Don’t hide behind email—It feels so easy to avoid difficult conversations by sending an email, but research shows that conflict escalates quicker and lasts longer over email.

Don’t be afraid to pick up the phone—Email is not always the right vehicle. You should never give bad news over email. Complex information is best addressed in a face-to-face conversation; nuance is often missed over email.

Use the CC field as an FYI—The CC field says this is an FYI and you are not expected to take action. CC your manager when you want him or her to know you’ve taken an action.

Use the BCC field for large groups of recipients—Don’t advertise people’s email address.

Use “Reply All” only when appropriate—Use sparingly.  If everyone on the chain doesn’t need to see your response why fill up their inbox? 

Take care when sending large files—Check with your recipient in advance to see how they would like to receive the file. 

Avoid sarcasm or tongue-in-cheek humor—Email doesn’t convey the meaning behind these types of statements.

Which of these email tips – if implemented – could make a significant difference for you and those you email?

-David Grossman

____

Did you miss Tips to Improve Your Email E-tiquette, Part 1?  Read it now.

____