My rant on e-mail made me a bit uneasy. A little because of the realization that I don't know everything. A little because of bad experiences in the past when taking too firm a stand on certain issues. But really, I'm not trying to take any shots at anyone in particular. I abuse e-mail as much as anyone I know. I don't always follow my own rules. But I try.

Here are my e-mail rules.

1. Never use e-mail for initial contact.

If you have an idea or a request, talk first. Face-to-face is best. Phone calls are the second choice. Video conferencing wouldn't be bad. At least discuss the idea first.

2. Use e-mail to confirm agreements, give answers that are expected, follow-up with information.

This typically would be a reply in form, "thanks for spending time with me today. My understanding of our agreement is.......... " E-mail then can be used to build commitment and understanding, along with a reinforcement of expected actions and timeframes.

3. Never assume that sending an e-mail gets your point across.

If I had a nickel for every time I heard the "doesn't anyone read e-mail" complaint, well, I may not be rich, but I would have a pretty good start.

4. Don't expect e-mail to deliver timely messages.

Three cheers for you real-time e-mailers. I always get a kick out of those messages that are for "a green car in the north lot with its lights on", or "there is food in the break room." Of course, I pick those up late at night or even days later. Who gets these messages in time to save their battery or pick up a free meal.

I'm certain there are other e-mail rules. I have taken courage because of the positive input I've received about my Tuesday post. Let me know if you have different rules. Also, take it easy on us batch e-mailers..........
10:00:16 PM    comment []