Being Tech-Savvy!

Etiquette has been practised for centuries.  Emailing and texting has only been around for less than 2 decades.  So it is not a surprise that there are still some people who has not integrated etiquette with their electronic or technological lives.  Here are some of the common faux pas in communicating through the latest technology and how to be more tech-savvy in today's modern society:

Practise good email etiquette!

1.  Don't shout (applies to both email and text).
     How would you read the following texts if you receive this in your mobile phone?

    PLEASE SUBMIT THE REPORT TO ME BY 3PM.

    TEXT IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS.

    Or how would you interpret this if you receive something like this on your email:

    I would like to request for you to pick up the documents before 2pm today as I will be out of the office in the afternoon. 

Some may be neutral in reacting to these examples, while others may feel offended, as though they were not capable of understanding the message, so it needed to be emphasized to them.  We write or text certain things one way, but receivers may read it another way.  So always be cautious and wise as to which word/s you may want to emphasize with bold or italics, but make sure that you do not "shout" in your text or emails.

More tech-savvy tips after the break!




2.  Use complete spelling, correct grammar and whole sentences in emails. (Shorten but professionalize text messages as opposed to using broken english/language on text).

     I've received the following text messages from professional colleagues or encounters in the past:

Text professionally!


    Wru?

     Here na me.  Meet u starbux txt wn u gt hir.

Instead, for shorter messages, text more professionally by completing the sentence appropriately and using the right spelling, like this:

    Where are you?

    I'm here at Starbucks, please text me when you are near.  I'm seated by the counter. Thanks!

3.  Reply as soon as you can.  Apologize for any delay in email or text. 

     Being professional also means being punctual.  Be prompt in responding to business-related emails or texts.  Of course, if you are pre-occupied with something that is also work-related, it is understandable so simply respond apologetically and I am sure, that person that you are corresponding with will be understanding and will continue doing business with you.  Your ability to text and email can be a reflection of your professional behavior so make sure you practise this habit of successful people.

Being tech-savvy is easy.  It simply takes common sense, discipline, and sensitivity of others.  Practise these tips and you will surely create a professional image in your technological communication with your colleagues and clients!