To mail or not to mail?
Here is a simple step-by-step matrix to help you quickly determine whether that email is really worth sending over
The world is truly going through some tough times. Technology has been hugely responsible for letting working professionals manage their jobs remotely. The pandemic has accelerated the shift towards a hybrid workspace scenario where online interactions have exponentially increased.
The ever-tiring game of balancing personal life with work-life has become more stressful. The stress is very real and has been causing burnouts in millions of employees all over the world. No one has suffered more than the employees themselves. This is the result of late-night meetings, impossible deadlines and most importantly, things that could have been a small text or a quick call turning into humongous mail chains that are metaphorically longer than the longest sea beach.
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The number of emails increased substantially during the pandemic period. A research article from Harvard Business School dated September 14, 2020 states that employees sent 5.2% more emails per day during the lockdown period and CC'd 2.9% more recipients due to lack of direct interaction globally.
Are these many e-mails really necessary?
The role of a traditional office is to create a formal environment to help employees work together. So, what happens when you do not have that physical space in the office anymore? The lack of human interaction and a conducive environment cause emotional and physical fatigue, even though no one is communicating or working from the office. To keep up appearances in front of the reporting manager, employees tend to shoot unnecessary emails to give the impression that they are active and working way more than their counterparts.
So, what can be done to stop these unnecessary emails?
Stop and think. Ask yourself, is this email really necessary? Here is a simple step-by-step matrix to help you quickly determine whether that email is really worth sending over.
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A text can solve this! |
A call might be better! |
Reply with an email |
Now it is time to drop a serious mail! |
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Email receiver gave no response to your first email? They are out of the office? Not their regular working hours? Is the recipient a close colleague?
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No response after the text? Responding to other mails but avoiding this?
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After two approaches, no reply yet? Has the recipient not shared their queries and possibly when they will be able to meet the deadline? |
Well, no reply? Multiple projects are now facing roadblocks due to this one person? |
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Solution: Drop a text about your urgency. |
Solution: Call the recipient, if the number is available. Explain your needs. |
Solution: Drop an email further explaining your needs, without escalating it. |
Solution: Please go ahead and drop that email. |
Remember, the main goal of working from home is to develop relationships and get our jobs done. Being hot-headed only shows your impatience and lack of leadership skills. One small act of kindness, patience and maturity might be the reason you get chosen as a leader in the long run, not copying your boss in every email.
All bosses are temporary, your learning and development as a human is permanent and will be your key instrument towards success throughout your career.
Raisa Adiba is a corporate banker who enjoys writing as a hobby among many other things
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of The Business Standard.
