Over the past year, I’ve experienced even my plain text, no graphics or attachment e-mails getting blocked by the other side because I inadvertently did something spammy.
In my case, it was usually the original e-mail I was responding to was spammy (way formatted, had an embedded graphic, etc.) contained within that took my reply right with it — blocked!
The fact remains that e-mail is not a brochure nor was it ever meant to be a fancily fonted graphically enhanced message. Although the temptation is there because the tools to do so are available in your e-mail program, if you are serious about your e-mail getting through, you need to be a “plain Jane” so to speak.
Why would formatting, embedding and such tools exist if they are now causing so many legitimate e-mails from getting through the network? Well, the answer is simple. Back in the day who would have thought that commercialism would so corrupt this communication tool is such a way as to necessitate the need to start blocking spammers. Heck, the word spam used to mean luncheon meat!
When it comes to business, it is best you type your e-mail properly from head to toe while being concise and clear about your message without having to rely on any formatting, caps or embedded graphics. I’ve typed about this topic before here on my Blog, but many ignore my advice because they still want their photo, their logo or that fancy colored font to be seen in their business e-mails. Fine… then know you risk your e-mail getting blocked. You simply can’t have it both ways.
If you do get an e-mail returned due to “policy reasons” you know the system on the other side picked up on something spammy within your e-mail. You can check to see what that may be by using this free tool online that checks the content of your e-mail called ContentChecker.
And for those who didn’t catch my article on the topic yet, give it a read now and ensure your e-mails get through to their intended parties: How To Avoid Looking Spammy.
At your service,
Judith
It’s that time of year — time to make your resolutions. How about makings just 10 resolutions when it comes to your day to day e-mail activities?
You may find you already have these resolutions firmly under your command — congrats! Then, simply use the SEND feature in the top right hand corner of the page, to send to those who still need a hint!
10 E-mail Etiquette Resolutions for 2008
A Happy, Healthy and Prosperous New Year to you!
At your service,
Judith
I type tons of e-mails every day. In the back of my mind, I am always aware that my e-mails can be forwarded without my knowledge or permission. Yes, one should always ask permission to forward e-mails sent to them first before doing so. Most lack the courtesy and professionalism to do so.
Over the years, I’ve had many of my e-mails replying to client concerns or requests forwarded to competitors without my permission. Being I know what I am doing and my knowledge and expertise are backed by over a decade of experience, I can see why someone would want my opinion and share it with those who state to the contrary.
But forwarding my e-mails is not the proper way to question another provider’s methods or motives. What one should do is either ask if it is O.K. to send my e-mail along, or type your own e-mail and ask your own questions to those with whom my advice has raised concern.
What is equally as interesting is how threatened and defensive the company/individual who has been forwarded my e-mail responds. Being I do know what I am talking about — some will reflect their agreement in an off-handed techno-babbled kind of way. The others — well, what do you think it says that rather than stick to the issues at hand they question my experience and motives? Clearly having not checked out this site they only serve to embarrass themselves. That’s a company to stay clear of.
Online, you’ll find that there will always be different ways to approach any given project or process. It is up to you as the customer to do your due diligence as to who knows what they are talking about and has your best interest at heart.
To pit two potential providers against each other (Judith don’t play that game) simply reflects your lack of knowledge, tech savvy and professionalism. Don’t be surprised if the provider who had the experience, honesty and good intentions is pleased to leave you in the hands of their competitor.
At your service,
Judith
