Emails may be monitored:

• Written form of communication
• Deleted message can still be retrieved

Emails are subject to laws:

• Use of 'in-house' email in recent court cases

Develop email policies:

• Use of software to monitor adherence to policy
• Rules about acceptable, unacceptable - eg. harassment

Policies need agreement:

• Senior managers must endorse, act as role models

Publicise policies:

• New starters - induction, employment contracts
• Clarify issues for all staff, eg. confidentiality, 'trade secrets', productivity, harassment, personal use, company monitoring
• Managers' responsibilities - monitoring, giving feedback

Email sins:

• Don't use email for critical feedback (a 'flame')
• Avoid long emails
• Don't use UPPER CASE (shouting!)
• Don't miss subject line
• Don't send large, unwanted emails
• Avoid unclear jargon
• Don't leave emails unmanaged

Email professionalism:

• Reply quickly
• Use name initially
• Respond in parts
• Number segments
• Use for meeting agendas
• Use email for public praise
• Sign off contact details