E-mail: A Critical Communication Tool if Used Correctly
If I have data to report, should I call the person, put it in writing, or send a quick e-mail?If I want to thank someone for something he or she did to help me — a much more personal type of communication – do I send a handwritten note or an e-mail?Just because we have incredible communication tools – like e-mail – doesn’t mean we always should use them … or possibly abuse them.E-mail shouldn’t be used for sending long messages, discussing confidential information, or distributing negative news, or sending complicated policy changes.E-mail also shouldn’t be used in lieu of having face-to-face time.Even if you do choose the right tool, you need to use it properly. It is so easy to use, that we frequently throw caution to the wind when using it.Be sure to pay attention to both the tone and accuracy of all e-mail messages. Over the weekend, I had some repairs that had to be done at home. Over the weekend, my husband was slicing potatoes using a mandolin — a great kitchen tool.Unfortunately, he didn’t anchor it properly, and ended up slicing his finger. You don’t want to appear to be abrupt or sloppy.The cost of e-mail mistakes, abuse, and misuse, can be great.So, just think of e-mail as one tool in your communication toolbox, and use it carefully and selectively. Should I see him or her, if possible; or is it OK to e-mail the person? Not good for a dentist!The same is true with e-mail. I pulled out the trusty toolbox, and as I moved from project to project, I had to think about which tool would be most effective.Midway through my project, I had an epiphany: How similar is what I’m doing at home to what happens at work – picking the right tool for the right activity?Let’s say I have feedback to give a colleague or direct report.
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