"Netiquette, or net etiquette,
comprises the courteous guidelines for communicating on-line via the Internet..."
-Dana May Casperson: Power Etiquette
The Internet has become
a way of life in the business world. E-mail is fast and efficient and it allows
people to stay in touch easily. For example, people on the road can stay in
contact with their office and clients even when they are gone for extended periods
of time. As we move into the new century, e-mail and the use of the World Wide
Web for business purposes will increase beyond our wildest imagination. The
Forrester Research Group has indicated that Aby the year 2005 users will be
sending more than 5 billion personal messages a day.
There are many reasons for
use of the Internet. It is low cost. You can reach many people simultaneously.
It is quick and easy. It allows us to stay in touch with people more frequently.
We can use it 24 hours a day anyplace in the world. It is efficient. However,
as professionals, we need guidelines for electronic communication. What offends
one person may be all right with someone else. I recently surveyed 30 professionals
to establish their preferences and dislikes regarding e-mail. Their answers
were diverse and covered a wide variety of concerns. But they agreed on the
following points about receiving or sending e-mail.
E-mail is here to stay.
It is an effective tool that saves time and money, and it allows us to be in
almost constant contact with our customers and offices. Used properly, it can
provide a positive image of you and your organization. Used inappropriately,
it can offend potential clients and earn you a reputation you may not want.
Dress your e-mail for success to thrive in the new century.
For permission to print
Dress Your E-Mail for Success in your company newsletter or professional journal
contact Eileen.
Copyright
© 1999 Eileen O. Brownell. All Rights Reserved.