With every businessperson in America now using email – with the exception of Steve Remson, a grain analyst from Ohio who claims nobody told him about it – proper email etiquette is essential. Here are five common mistakes that can destroy a promising career.
- Copying Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin on emails that contain confidential information No matter what the information is, there is no reason that Mr. Putin needs to have it. Even if one of his people tells you he should be copied – even if he does so himself – don’t.
- Attaching a photo of your mother to business correspondence While this practice is becoming more and more common among practitioners of Scientology, it is not yet acceptable in the corporate world. Ask yourself: “Does a photo of my mother have anything to do with this business matter?” If it doesn’t, the best bet is not to attach it.
- Signing off with the sunglasses-wearing smiley face 😎 . This emoticon has been officially banned by the Emoticon Acceptability Association, owing to its misuse by a group of North Dakota stock traders. However, the mandate has not been well-publicized, so many up and comers have found themselves wondering why they’re suddenly out of a job. Best to use one of the 1,455,445 other approved emoticons.
- Including the weights of attendees in meeting invitations Most people do not want their weight publicized, and even if someone did this isn’t the proper platform. Wrong: Also attending will be Jim Perkins (223 pounds), Janice Means (118 pounds) and Theresa Putnick (136 pounds). Right: Also attending will be Jim Perkins, Janice Means, and Theresa Putnick.
- Expecting a response in less than 30 seconds – and, when not getting it, showing up in the office of the recipient with eyes glaring and fists clenched, demanding that he or she read your message immediately or there will be “consequences.” This is a very serious action, and should not be taken unless it has been at least ten minutes since the email was sent.
