Read Before You Write

As a culture we’ve become lazy. Many are also of the opinion that their time is more important than others so they don’t take the time, make the time, to read an e-mail in it’s entirety.

This happens with Web sites and the information provided as well. Assuming a site is well designed and the information you seek is only a click or two away, don’t just jump for that Contact button. Make the effort to click to the info you are looking for and then take the time to read it.

With all the information online and provided by request, the least we can do is make an effort to read it. I get e-mails daily from clients who forward an e-mail they received with questions pertaining to its content that if they took the time to read the entire e-mail, they would have their answer.

The volume of e-mails I receive daily through my Email Etiquette Web site that ask questions where the answers could be found with a quick site search, or a click or two, back up my point.

Things don’t get any easier than this folks. To not want to take the time to read what is available to you, because you are too busy not only lacks a sense of courtesy for those who have provided the information you don’t want to read, but reflects the level of narcissism in your personality.

Always read e-mails sent to you before questioning or assuming. Most misunderstandings can be avoided by doing so. Sometimes, it may be necessary to read an e-mail 2 or 3 times to make sure you don’t misread intent or inquiry.

At Web sites, make the effort to find what you are looking for before you take up the site owner’s time requiring they provide answers or information already on their site for your convenience. Then ask questions if you require more info or clarification.

By not taking the time to read before you write, you let others know what it will be like to communicate, work with or do business with you. A couple of the words that come to mind; demanding and lazy.

Some More Info for You:

1. Take 5, Then Click Contact
2. Always Read the TOS
3. Write E-mails to Impress!
4. E-mailing for Help? E-mail Etiquette Matters — Allot!
5. E-mail Etiquette Includes Reading