Communicating On-Line

Recently, I’ve seen any number of on-line postings predicting the end of e-mail. Lots of studies predict that future workers will quit e-mail and instead turn to texting, tweeting and other social media to share important information. Interestingly, according to at least one survey, teens disregard assertions regarding the potential demise of email mostly because it is so ubiquitous in the business world. However, ask those same teens what their email address is and you’ll likely find they don’t remember it. Why? They so rarely use it.

I’ve come across one web site that devotes itself exclusively to email etiquette.  www.Emailreplies.com offers useful advice about appropriate procedures and ways to get answers to your questions, including these:

1. Use proper grammar, spelling and punctuation.
2. Use the “cc:” field sparingly.
3. Make one point per e-mail.  If you have more than one point, send separate emails.
4. Watch your tone. Make sure no one can misinterpret any of your language.
5. Never forward chain emails.

If you're starting work, plan to communicate with your boss or direct supervisor using their preferred tools.

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