True Professionals Give and Take E-mail Corrections with Grace

I have a bunch of Web sites and I do tons of writing that requires I read, reread, and read again. I can go back to things I have written some time later and find errors that I missed. Sometimes what happens is some kind soul ends up at my Web site, generally they have experienced the “Invisible Error Syndrome” too, and they take the time to e-mail me so that I can make the appropriate corrections.

What do I do when I receive these e-mails? First, let me say that 9 out of 10 of the e-mails I receive are sent with genuine sincere concern to want to help. However, there are those who are less than professional and feel the need to correct me as though I am a 5 year old that needs scolding all the while noting their accomplishments and alphabet soup to lend credence to their corrections. Fine — either way I have been given the opportunity to learn something and correct my errors.

So, back to how I handle these “corrections.” I thank them and offer my humble apologies for missing it in the first place. It is my mistake, my oversight — my error. I don’t make excuses. See I take corrections in stride — I am comfortable with the fact I am not perfect. If someone takes the time to help me out, regardless of tone or motive, the result is the same. They have helped me to make my site or article better!

Same goes for E-mail Etiquette. None of us are perfect. Many have never had any formal training or education when it comes to E-mail Etiquette and proper technology use. And contrary to popular belief, the online world is not a free-for-all.

There are living, breathing human beings behind these screens — all with feelings, most trying to do their best. And in business, how your engage, promote and nurture your e-mail relationships and conversations can literally determine your level of effectiveness and success.

If it is pointed out to you in a kind manner that you need to work on your e-mail skills, or that you did something wrong online, or you overlooked an error on your site, don’t get offended and huffy. Promptly thank the person who brought the issue to your attention. Then, go about correcting the situation and make efforts in the appropriate areas to resolve it for the long haul.

If you find someone needs help with E-mail Etiquette or found mistakes you want to make them aware of, don’t belittle them or attempt to make them feel stupid. If you cannot make corrections or suggestions with kindness; then don’t bother.

I’ve never understood why some actually use the commodity of precious time to be intentionally rude or condescending when pointing out others mistakes. I also do not understand why some folks react so negatively when being kindly corrected.

By helping other folks learn we are all doing a service to global community by making this environment one that is profitable and enjoyable for all to participate – because we are all on the same page. Don’t get mad if you don’t know everything yet. Don’t rest on your laurels and think that you do. And most importantly, don’t kill the messenger if someone points that out to you!

Give and take corrections with grace and the online world will flourish with you!