Electronic mail is a means of communication with people. It is also the cheapest
and one of the fastest ways of communication. However, just as in other forms of
communication, some basic etiquette must be
followed. For instance, if you ask for something in your e-mail, you should
say `please'. Similarly, if someone does something for you, do reply and say
`thank you'. Moreover, include enough information in your mail if you send in a
question to which you expect an answer.
After sending an e-mail, do not expect an immediate answer. Very often, we
have to wait for a while before receiving a reply. Just because you do not get
an answer from someone in ten minutes, it does not mean that the person is
ignoring you. So there is no cause for offence Never send another e-mail to
tell the person off.
When composing an e-mail message, make sure you read it over before sending
it. Spending time on making your e-mail clearer is time well spent and worth
your effort. If the sentences are unclear or ambiguous,
you have to take some time to rephrase to make them clearer.
Lastly, always use a signature for your mail. The signature identifies who
you are. You do not want the receiver to wonder who has sent the mail.
By observing these rules, your e-mail is likely to be well received. The
outcome is that you will receive courteous and satisfactory pleasant e-mail too. |