6 golden rules for responding to emails

So, what are these golden rules for using email with clients? I came up with six, in no particular order:

1. Use “reply all” sparingly.

In a business setting, you should be very careful about using that “reply all.” In fact, I would argue you should very rarely use it. Instead, only send to those who actually have to know what it is you’re discussing.

2. Resist sending the “thanks” email.

Communicators often over-communicate. We want to dot every “i” and cross every “t.” But by sending all those “thanks” emails, you’re just cluttering up your colleagues’ and clients’ inboxes. You’re accomplishing nothing. They sent you the note. They assume you read it. Leave it at that, if you have nothing substantive to add.

3. Unless it’s an emergency, don’t reply after hours.