On Thursday January 25, I will return as a virtual presenter to the Wild Wisconsin Winter Web Conference. In 2020 I spoke on the topic of Developing Motivated Cultures (recording available through this link). This year I will share tips and tricks on Effective Email Etiquette. As a resource, the script for my talk is now posted on the Efficient Librarian website.

Here is the start of the presentation.

Effective Email Etiquette – How to Ensure Your Messages Are Understood

All of us send email every day. However, have you ever considered what makes for an effective email that will be read and understood by the recipient? As a primary means of communication with colleagues and the public, it is important to consider the most effective ways to compose email to ensure it is read fully and understood clearly.

Don’t Send that Email … Unless You Have To!

One of the biggest challenges in effective communication is deciding the medium for the message. For many people, email is a common way to share information. In fact, it is often preferred, as implied by the saying, “this was another meeting that should have been an email.”  Yet it does have limits. Here are times when email is appropriate:

1. Routine communication: Emails are suitable for routine updates, sharing information, and conveying non-urgent messages. If your message is not time-sensitive and allows for a delayed response, email is a suitable choice.
2. Documentation: When you need a written record of communication, such as project updates, agreements, or decisions.
3. Scheduling and coordination: For arranging meetings, confirming appointments, and coordinating schedules.
4. Formal communication: In professional settings, emails are often appropriate for formal communication, such as job applications, official announcements, and business proposals.

Read the full article to learn more about how to be more effective with CC and BCC, writing impactful subject lines, the perils of public records, and more!