Most of us use e-mail to communicate with friends, family and workplace colleagues. But few of us pay much attention to our online manners. Some people never reply to their e-mails, while others send long, complicated messages that no one has time to read. Like any form of communication, e-mail sends a message about you. Here's how to make sure it's a positive one.
When not to use e-mail
It's tempting to use e-mail because it's fast and easy. But there are times when you shouldn't. If you're upset with someone, the last thing you should do is fire off an e-mail. In an emotional situation, the other person might misunderstand you because they can't read your body language and other clues to interpret the real meaning of your message. It's also a bad idea to use e-mail to communicate confidential information, such as your bank account number. You never know whose hands the information could fall into, so don't include anything in an e-mail that you wouldn't write on a postcard. When dealing with sensitive or private matters, always use face-to-face communication.
Watch your tone
Beginning an e-mail with 'Hi' and ending with 'See you later' is fine for your pals, but not for someone you don't know. In a formal e-mail, you should use the same opening and closing that you would in a formal letter (i.e. Dear/Sincerely/Faithfully). You should also avoid informal abbreviations such as 'BTW' (by the way) or emoticons like the smiley :-). An older person, for example, might not know what they mean.
Keep it short