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ARTICLE · 30 JULY 2008

10 Rules To Help Keep You Out Of E-mail Trouble

Assume that your e-mail will be printed on the front page of the New York Times. If you would be embarrassed or concerned, don't send it.

United StatesMedia, Telecoms, IT, Entertainment
William Hamilton
William Hamilton

1. Follow the Golden Rule

Assume that your e-mail will be printed on the front page of the New York Times. If you would be embarrassed or concerned, don't send it.

2. Don't e-mail if you can telephone or meet in person

E-mail is not a replacement for personal conversation. Comments and suggestions can be said in a conversation that suddenly and surprisingly become misinterpreted, embarrassing or harmful in an e-mail.

3. Never ever send e-mail when you are angry or tired

Fatigue will cause you to lose patience and send something you will later regret. Never send an e-mail when tired or angry.

4. Never joke in e-mails

What you are sending may seem hysterical to you, but don't do it. You never really know the mood of the person receiving the email.

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