In our recent Netiquette (Net etiquette) feature, we warned against TYPING MESSAGES IN CAPITAL LETTERS, AS IT IS THE ONLINE EQUIVALENT OF SHOUTING.
Our cautionary note was not followed by a Financial Controller in New Zealand, who was dismissed for causing “disharmony in the workplace”.
Her crime, according to her employer, was sending shouty emails which were considered “confrontational”.
Although the dismissal has now been deemed unfair following an appeal, it highlights the importance of good netiquette and the need for clear guidelines on email use in all companies. It is difficult to convey emotional intent in emails, and following basic guidelines can often avoid causing distress.
So next time you reach for the CAPS LOCK KEY, think twice!
Every now and again we are asked to add an email link to a client’s Web site. Although still common practice, we tend to advise against this for four very good reasons.
Our advice for how to deal with unsolicited email is simple: simply delete it. Spam sent by the “World Business Guide” shows why.
This weekend’s overblown story of the wife of Sir John Sawers – the MI6 chief-in-waiting – exposing personal family details on Facebook is the latest in a string of events highlighting the struggle to adapt to the increasing reach of social networks.
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