We all have an inner governor that tells us what’s appropriate to say in any given situation. Whether or not we listen, is up to us. However, the same concept applies to our electronic correspondence. Very often, even the most level-headed of us will type an email and send it off without really considering what we’re saying. Sometimes we’re fueled by other experiences and other forces, and, we don’t take the time to evaluate the weight of our words. Email is a convenient medium. However, it lacks the intonation and understanding of face-to-face conversation. Often, what we type in an email can be misconstrued, or, worse, is just patently inappropriate. Remember, anything we send out electronically remains forever—somewhere, and unlike daily conversation, it can be recorded and repeated.
So, today, before you fire off an email, take a few seconds to read it. Make sure it’s exactly what you mean to say and written in a manner which is fair and polite. Just as you would gauge your reactions and responses in conversation, you must consider your words carefully when sent electronically.
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