A site visitor writes:
“If someone expects a reply to an email, should it be stated in the email? And, what about a general informative email that has been addressed to a large group for informational purposes?”
As far as stating you expect a response, not necessarily. When someone takes the time to e-mail another, common courtesy dictates that you respond on a timely basis. To not respond because the sender didn’t ask you to, can be perceived as you ignoring the sender.
Responding promptly, even if to just send a “Thank You” helps build relationships and avoid misunderstandings. Both of which are critical to building strong partnerships when it comes to building your business.
As far as informative mass e-mails, I would assume a reply is not expected if it is announcement type e-mail. The exception would be if you have specific issue with something in the e-mail that you feel the sender needs to be aware of. In that case, I would reply directly to the sender — and NOT Reply to All.
Some More Info for You:
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I was working for a CEO of a large corporation who requested an update on an urgent matter from almost half the company. Unfortunately, he replied thks to every email sent to him generating thousands of email replies.
There is a time and place to respond with thks – but not to a large list. It was left to me to explain the basics to him!
Tetsou
http://www.tetsou.co.uk
There is nothing worse than getting a reply email with no substance that simply says, “Thank You”. Why would you be so discourteous as to waste my time and clutter up my inbox? Etiquette is important, but is often situational. Never, never send a non-substantive email to a programmer, for example. It will widely be seen as disrespectful.
Hey, Rachel:
I can think of allot worse things that someone taking the time to send a “thank you” e-mail. A waste of time and clutter when someone takes their time to thank you for your efforts? I received over 500 e-mails daily where many are demanding, curt or presumptuous. Because of that when I do get a thank you e-mail, and it happens very rarely, it makes me smile. I also don’t agree that sending thank you e-mails is “widely seen as disrespectful.” By who and what is that based on? I’ve met only a handful of onliners, and I’ve been e-mailing longer than most, who feel as you do. Based on the feedback I have received through this site, quite the contrary seems to be the case.
I have to wonder why one would have such a visceral reaction to what is in essence a kind gesture. Maybe others will read my previous post on this topic and share their opinions.