Posted on September 16, 2009 - by rfrank

Email “no-no’s”

Email has changed the way people live and work. I did a Google search to see how many people use email. WikiAnswers.com was a lot of help. When asked, “How many people use email worldwide?” their best answer is “Basically anyone with a computer.” No duh.

Just because email is good for some things doesn’t mean it’s good for everything. Here are some times when you should NOT use email.

• When you have to deliver bad news. Do this face to face.
• When you need to discipline an employee or volunteer. Too many people think the ‘e’ in email stands for ‘easy way out’ and boy are they wrong.
• When you are mad. Take 24 hours and think about it before you email. Ministry is about relationships and communication can make or break relationships. Any single email could be the catalyst for cementing a relationship or for destroying it – bottom line.
• When you need feedback that can’t fit in a few paragraphs. Don’t make someone write a book in an email.
• When you need a formal vote (a motion, a second, discussion, and final votes). You end up with a long thread of emails and everyone gets confused and frustrated the longer it gets.
• When you have complicated instructions you are trying to teach. Pick up the telephone.
• When you want to gossip. How many times have you jokingly said (or not jokingly), “If you quote me, I’ll simply deny it.” News flash – this isn’t possible on email!
• When you have nothing to add. Ask yourself, “Am I  adding to the conversation or just making my voice heard?”

Am I forgetting anything? If so, leave a comment and let me know.