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Netiquette

I have been using email almost 20 years and sometimes wonder if people ever really think about what they are doing when they hit send. Here are a few thoughts that I found, along with my comments, on the topic of Email Etiquette from this website:
  1. Be concise and to the point. -Put it in an attachment or link to it if it is really long.
  2. Make it personal. -That is kind of the point of email.. make sure to add an introductory comment if you are forwarding a message. 
  3. Answer swiftly.  -I sometimes send a reply to someone when I am busy saying that I got the message and plan to get back to them soon. 
  4. Do not attach unnecessary files. -Large files can cause downloading to be slow.
  5. Do not write in CAPITALS. -Every now and then I get one of these.. they are annoying.
  6. Don't leave out the message thread. -Even when you reply it is good to leave the original message(s).. people do get mail from other people :)
  7. Read the email before you send it. -Always good to proofread your stuff.
  8. Do not overuse Reply to All. -Not everyone needs to hear what you have to say.
  9. Mailings: use the bcc: field. -It is never a good idea to send a mass mailing out with email addresses exposed.. others may not want their address published.
  10. Do not use email to discuss confidential information. -You never know where your email will end up.. use discretion.
  11. Use a meaningful subject. -This is one of pet peeves.. especially when there is no subject at all.
  12. Don't forward virus hoaxes and chain letters. -Even if they say prayer request. Do I even have to say more?
  13. Don't reply to spam. -Even unsubscribing to a list can cause you problems becuase it tells the spammers that you read their message.
How about you? Any stories or tips to share?

2 comments:

  1. Hi Bob,

    This is a good list for email. I wonder if there is a similar one for SMS.

    ReplyDelete
  2. A great set of guidelines for everyone. I have one person that I delete most of what she sends before its even read. she forwards everything that comes across the airwaves. I don't have the time, interest or patience for all that.

    ReplyDelete

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