E-mail Etiquette

E-mail Etiquette

Electronic mail, or email, is any message sent from one individual to another via computers. E-mail is one of the most efficient means of communication devised. You can read it at your convenience; you can scan it prior to opening, and, store or reply with the touch of a button. Even sending multiple copies is a snap with multiple-addressing capabilities of today's programs.

To stay consistent with all these capabilities there are some simple rules, known as Netiquette, we should all follow:

•   Use the subject line. Many people only open messages with subject lines to avoid viruses
•   Don't type in all CAPS - this is perceived as shouting
•   Be careful about what you write, remember it's available to everyone and can be easily forwarded to   just the wrong person
•   Limit line length to 55-60 characters across to avoid wrapping the text in odd ways at the other end
•   Read your e-mail before you send it! Check for typographical errors and make sure your points are   clear

Making sure your points are clear can be difficult. E-mail does not always effectively convey emotions. Sometimes we have difficulty telling if someone is serious or kidding. Sarcasm is particularly dangerous in e-mail because of this. Many people avoid misunderstandings by using smileys or emoticons. These symbols help convey the emotion of a message, for example:

                            : ) a smile
                            ;-) a wink
                            :-o shock or surprise
                            :/ hmmm
                            :-D big delighted grin
                            {{{***}}} (hugs and kisses)

Remember also, we all have different computers. Your message's visual qualities may be quite different by the time it gets to the recipient. What you see is not what they see - it all depends on our equipment, programs and wherewithal.

Rule #1 … remember we are human. Never forget that the person reading your mail is a person with feelings that can be hurt.

Until next time … :-D ;-)