ajcjobs > BlogBreak > Archives > 2007 > May > 31 > Entry

Should I declare ‘email bankruptcy’?

By Jennifer Kahnweiler | Thursday, May 31, 2007, 08:06 AM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Complaints about email overload is a popular topic these days.It is not uncommon for people to receive over 200 emails a day.Much of the wasted time is spent on dealing with non essential information and spam has not gone away.

Some folks have “hit bottom” and are declaring email bankruptcy, simply not responding to their emails. While I understand the frustration that can lead to this drastic measure, I think it causes more problems than it solves. Since email remains the main vehicle for business communication (how many voice mails do you get anymore?) you can’t stop off the train completely. Communication is a process between two parties and by stepping away you are not solving anything other than providing short term relief for yourself.

So if that is not the answer, then what?Productivity experts suggest that you use technology more wisely to manage the overload.I think that if we can change some of our own habits, it may just catch on and we will all be better off.

Here are a few of tips:

  • Beware of “reply all.” You should have a good reason for copying people on emails. Ask yourself - do they NEED to be copied? Don’t clutter their inbox.
  • Keep your inbox clean and to no more than one screen. Take actions on items and move emails to folders.
  • Use descriptive subject lines. You may not even need to put anything in the body of the mail.
  • State the purpose of the email in the first sentence
  • Keep it short and use bullet points
  • Don’t waste time by sending an email that just says “thanks!”
  • Don’t use emails if a conversation is open to interpretation or if you have bounced back and forth a few times. Clarity is needed so pick up the phone or talk face to face.
  • Contact your IT resources to block spam.

I would love to hear your suggestions and email pet peeves. Help us all get back some much needed time!

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By DRH

June 6, 2007 1:52 PM | Link to this

Some people really need to get over themselves. I have multiple e-mails; school, personal, and three business related ones. Get organized and stop crying.