Don't email me, just talk

The thing about ‘newfangled’ machines is that they are taken to extremes before anyone finds a balance. Frankly, I find making arrangements through email preferable to the telephone – provided I’m certain the other person checks incoming mail at least daily. Rather than throwing the baby out with the bathwater, why not find a happy medium? Perhaps, if you do, your example will teach others. And your willingness to compromise should earn you points. So, since simple details can easily be handled through email, you might as well comply. When it comes to topics that require discussion, consider sending an email agenda or list of points to consider. Then you can add, ‘These are the points I must speak to you about. I reckon we’ll need about 15 minutes to sort it out. What about [list some times]? I’ll come to your office.’ By doing things this way, you’ll be a reactionary in disguise! Remember to thank the person after the meeting and tell them how productive it was. Flattery might not get you everywhere, but it will take you further down the road to success.

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