A site visitor writes:
My brother-in-law, who I also work with, never acknowledges messages that I send to him unless I ask him a direct question…and, even then, he sometimes fails to respond…so I have no way of knowing when, or if, he’s received my message…or what he thinks about it. There are times where I need his business direction and input and do not receive it. What’s the etiquette here?
The proper etiquette is to have the courtesy to reply as soon as possible — especially with business e-mails. Sometimes folks have busy schedules, are away from their computers or in some cases did not think a reply was necessary. But if you do ask direct questions that go unanswered that surely is not a way to run a business!
What you want to do is reply as soon as you possibly can. There is an expectation of a speedy reply with business e-mails and this is one of the dilemmas I get e-mailed about quite a bit. If you don’t respond, the other side will assume you are ignoring them as appears to be the case with you and your brother-in-law.
Most times, however, I don’t think onliners are purposely making a decision to ignore those who send them e-mail. But in our rush-rush, never-enough-time culture it is easy for many to do just that.
Reply promptly and professionally to all your business e-mails — that’s simply common courtesy!
Some More Info for You:
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I manage grants and accounts for a nonprofit foundation and I can’t tell you how many reports and communications I receive that aren’t even addressed to me! No “Hello MP, Good Afternoon Mp etc.” It drives me nuts! Likewise, emails that end without a person signing their name or saying thank you etc. Don’t go over the top, but be professional! I always try to respond in such a manner that will give the recipient a “hint.” The majority of the time I am communicating with people via email; they (other nonprofits) are asking me (the nonprofit I work for) for money, resources, and/or other help. I remember those with bad email etiquette, and frankly their chances of receiving help plummet with every inappropriate exchange. If they can’t manage a professional conversation, how are they going to manage several thousand dollars etc?
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Hey, Edward:
Your comments are typical of those who do understand the importance of professional communications and how others who do not yet embrace this topic are perceived.
If everyone were to just follow the Business E-mail Etiquette Basics on this site, the concerns you mention would no longer be an issue. Thanks for sharing!