E -Mail Do's and Don'ts 

Below are a list of 10 guidelines to use when e-mailing people to make your correspondence effective and courteous.
 

1.  Be specific and descriptive when writing subject lines.

2.  When responding to previous e-mail, quote specific portions to answer questions directly.  Delete excess portions.

3.  Avoid typing in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS.  This is considered shouting.

4.  Keep everything in your e-mail short.  Short lines, short paragraphs and short messages)

5.  Proofread  your e-mail before you send it.  Check for grammar mistakes and use a spell checker if possible.

6.  If a message is time sensitive and you need a response immediately; write Urgent in the subject line.
     If your message is a request where some  type of action is needed, write Request in the subject line.
     Avoid using the general term "information" in a subject line; it is too vague and will often be deleted before it is read.

7.  When forwarding a message, put your comments at the top so the reader does not have to scroll through the entire e-mail.

8.   Avoid being sarcastic. The receiver may not be able to tell if you are serious or joking.
       Instead, use emoticons (smileys or other facial expressions to express tone or attitude).

9.  Be chatty or informal to people who you know well or want a response.
     Be more formal or direct with people who you are  doing business with or seeking information from.
     When requesting information through an e-mail, it is helpful to provide an introduction at the beginning of an e-mail.

10.  Consider carefully what you write; it is a permanent record and can easily be forwarded to others!