Did you know that most misunderstandings could be easily avoided if one side or the other did not: Assume what the other meant. Read into an e-mail what wasn't there. Take the time to be clear about their intent and tone. It's dreadful what little things lead people to misunderstand … [Read more...]
E-mail Assumptions = Misunderstandings
I happens every day... assumptions flying all over the place! When it comes to your e-mail activities, you can not, should not, must not assume. Assuming in most cases will cause more harm than good. You "think" you know what the other side is thinking or meant. But do you really? Many times … [Read more...]
Assuming Gender in E-mail
Well, you know what happens when you assume? Making assumptions is something brought up quite often when it comes to e-mail. Assuming never leads to anything positive. Assuming intent, tone, seriousness, sense of humor -- never works out well. If you are unsure; ask. "Unisex" names are now … [Read more...]
Forwarding of Personal E-mails
A site visitor writes: How do you recommend I handle a good friend who forwards my personal emails to her about my life to her friend at work without asking me. Am I in the wrong to be upset? Is this good friendship practice or am I being too critical? Believe me, you are not wrong or being too … [Read more...]
Before You Click “Send” Email Checklist
Have you been in the middle of an e-mail misunderstanding? They happen every day. Most misunderstandings can be avoided by one side or the other not rushing through their e-mail activities and making sure their e-mail will be received, read and perceived with the desired meaning by the intended … [Read more...]
Should I have a Signature File on Personal E-mails?
Sure; why not!? What many don't think about is the fact that your signature file can have your informal personal sign-offs which include info you probably wouldn't include in formal business e-mail. One great example is if you are someone who rarely signs their name because they may be too … [Read more...]
No Sign-Off? No Big Deal?
Your sign-off gives you the opportunity to wrap-up the tone and intent of your e-mail so that your message is clear and to make sure you leave a positive impression. When you don't sign your name you risk being perceived as abrupt or impersonal. Some have actually stated to me "What's the big … [Read more...]
Always Consider the Source
"Distinguish the wanted from the unwanted, the valuable from the relatively valueless." Before you forward... Before you take info at it's face value... Before you assume legitimacy... From the "forward to all your friends" e-mails, to chain letters with commendable topics, to even the … [Read more...]