Apologies in advance for this little rant. I need to get this out. I’m starting a movement.

Regardless of your vertical, function or company, chances are you get a lot of email. Some of it (dare I say the majority of it) is not essential information. Why has this become acceptable? Sending frivolous email has become de rigueur. Has anyone else noticed?

Emails arrive in a variety of ways. Small groups threads, individual messages and team aliases all pepper my in-box. Replying to a question sent to a large email thread with another question isn’t helpful. Answering a question with another question simply breeds more confusion.

When I write to several people in one message I try to use their name to direct my comments directly to them. When possible I provide a suggestion to steer them in the direction I think is best. I try to be helpful. Provide insight. Direction.

Here are my 3 steps to make life better:

1. Writing out a message that describes a problem and asking for help should be step 1 of a written email.

2. The often omitted but equally important suggestion and/or resolution to the problem should be step 2 in the process.

3. Then, before sending, double check to whom you’re sending. Step 3 is to ensure that all recipients need / care about what you’re writing.

Help me start this movement. Tell your friend, co-workers and loved ones. Viva la Revolución!