How to Use Email Etiquette

No one wants to be THAT person. You know . . . the one everyone hates getting emails from. "Oh, no, there's an email from So-And-So in my box!" With the knowledge of these steps, your emails will be a delight to read.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Just your email and these steps!

1. Never use all-capital letters. It means you're yelling.

2. Use paragraphs whenever possible. Continuous lines are unappealing and make reading difficult.

3. Use but don't over-punctuate. Too many ellipses [...] or exclamation marks can be overwhelming.

4. Write in complete sentences.

5. Don't send "forwards." Instead use Cut and Paste.
   
   "Forwards" carry viruses and bugs. They also carry a thread of email addresses and information which previous emails may not want sent to others. Forwards are really only for sending pertinent information to third parties.

6. Use BCC (Blind Courtesy Copy) on mass emails. BCC keeps receivers from being able to see others' emails addresses.

7. Use CC (Courtesy Copy) for "observers" of emails. In other words, CC is for secondary receivers who are not expected to respond but whom you want to have the information contained in your email.

8. Don't use "smiley's." They're unprofessional and inadequately convey meaning.

9. Always sign your name. You'd never end a telephone conversation without saying goodbye!

10. Spell check before you send.