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Learn how to ensure your emails are read and effective despite budget constraints. Discover tips for composing, replying, and practicing email etiquette. Also, explore security considerations to protect your information.
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Presented by the District Election Technicians NCADE Conference, April 20-21, 2009 Communication in a time of budget constraints
Part II Enlightened E-mail
Did you know……? • Almost 88 percent of all Internet users in the U.S. use e-mail. • A recent report estimated that over 7 Trillion e-mails were sent worldwide last year. (That’s only slightly less than the national debt) • The average office worker now gets between 60 and 200 messages a day. Enlightened E-mail
With all that traffic, how do you ensure your email gets read? Enlightened Email
Making sure your e-mails are read • Subject lines should clearly state purpose • “Display name” should indicate the individual sending the email • Mary Smith, ABC County Board of Elections, or • ABC County Board of Elections? • Be brief – one topic per e-mail – don’t overload your recipient • Be specific – state the desired action clearly and any pertinent deadlines or requirements • Put contact information in a simple signature Enlightened E-mail
Composing Your Message • Think first, write second • WATCH YOUR TONE!!!!! • B careful not 2 abbrvt 2 much. Thx. • Eliminate backgrounds or graphics unless they are needed. • Send attachments by request or only to the appropriate person • Spelling and Grammar count – make your English teachers proud! Enlightened E-mail
Replying to E-mails • Before replying, check your settings. Reply All or Forward All sends your message to EVERYONE who got the original email. • Don’t get into a “Thank you”/”You’re Welcome” cycle of sending notes • Remember e-mails sent by your office may show up in places you never imagined. • Rule of thumb: If you wouldn’t put it on your letterhead, don’t put it in an email! Enlightened email
E-mail Etiquette (“netiquette”) • “Please” and “Thank you” are powerful words – state your requests appropriately. • What does your email address say about you? • JohnSmith@greatemail.com, or • JackRabbitSmithDaddy@greatemail.com • Use attachments with discretion – when sending pictures consider a low resolution file or a link to a storage site (photobucket, flickr) • Be aware of emotions conveyed in e-mail – sometimes what we mean to type isn’t what the recipient reads Enlightened E-mail
Security Considerations • Follow recommendations of County IT Dept.: • Microsoft updates • Anti-virus updates (current?) • Adhere to county policies regarding use of computers • Notify County IT immediately if infection is suspected • Computer begins to run slower • Excessive pop-ups/ads Enlightened E-mail