E-mail revisited

In July I wrote a blog entry about email. Since then I’ve witnessed a few issues with the way people use email.

Case 1: The cover your ass email

Is there really a need to spam hundreds of people to deny an allegation? If the allegation is not true then why would one worry about the allegation?  Many more important tasks can be accomplished instead. Don’t sweat it! Let’s assume the person denying the allegation is a leader. What message would the email send to his direct reports?

Case 2: Not including all the facts

Let’s say I wanted everyone to buy into an idea or maybe a product I want to purchase. I am responsible for presenting all the facts or ideas, pro and con, to those I am attempting to influence.

I find it very irresponsible to present only those facts or ideas that support selfish goals that sell an idea or a product. One must include all pros and cons based on facts and team members’ experiences – not just the ones that further ones goals.

I read an article tonight from the CyberPsychology & Behavior Journal.

Baker and Phillips (2007) claim ones “personal style may predict email use.” Those with low self-esteem, for example, may choose email over live interaction. Passing the buck, procrastination, or panic were other styles that could predict email use.

Baker and Phillips use the term e-break to describe the interruption in work flow monitoring email causes when it cannot be ignored. “Individuals who accesses e-mail when they had more important things they should have been doing were significantly e-breakers” (Baker and Phillips, 2007). One could argue that taking a break throughout the day is not a bad thing. However, does one really receive a mental and physical break by checking email?

Cassie e-breaking

One may try to rationalize the e-break but if the e-break is used to answer personal email this increases risk to the organization and the individual. Remember work email can be subpoenaed and individuals do receive disciplinary action for inappropriate email use.

In their study Baker and Phillips found 57% of email was used for work or study. Those that “are not buck passers are engaging in the greater (and more responsible) usage".”

One last interesting tidbit, the participants in the study reported they spent 7.41 hours a week on email. To me this seems high for a work environment.

How do you use email?