For most part, just be conservative.

9. Use "reply" button. Then person you're sending to can remember what topic was. It's also nice to summarize briefly. Example: "As per your request for information re: ABC project, Mary and I have..."

10. Don't use html. Some users can't receive it.

11. Attachment etiquette: Attachments should be labeled. Send them separately and label each one.

12. "Don't put anything in black and white..." Don't ever assume your email (or theirs) is private. Write as if whole world will see it ... it could happen.

13. Emotions. A best thing about writing is that you have time to reflect--so use it. If you're angry, don't reply right away. The same applies if you're enthusiastic. Take time to reflect on request/demand, and take some time to pose your reply.

14. "Don't 'cry wolf.'" Okay, this is a pet peeve of mine. I receive emails from one colleague that are always marked "urgent." After 3rd one I received that was merely routine, I disregarded his "urgent" signals. Do you want this to happen to you?

Other people are as busy as you are and appreciate anything you do to expedite reading emails. If you're unsure about your email writing, work with a coach, or get feedback from a trusted colleague.

Use reverse psychology!

1. Do something unexpected. Sometimes shock tactics or being brutally honest works. 2. Encourage person to keep doing what it is that is irritating behavior. It is strange but encouraging people to continue their irritating behavior gets them to stop it. 3. Have fun experimenting with your new approaches! 4. Tell someone not to change what he is doing. 5. Create consequences or let natural consequences of his negative behavior occur. 6. Urge someone to do annoying actions even more

New Conflict Management Techniques 1. Do not offer a long list of reasons why someone should change. Simply tell them what needs to be done. The more you rationalize or argue more they will resist. You will be wasting time and energy. 2. In face of constant criticism, silently take note of what is being said, then read notes back – instead of actively defending each point. 3. Make statements (“Unless it creates a problem for you, I’m going to do X”) 4. Give a specific compliment to other party in a conflict. (“I like way you presented your report – your lineup of facts made it easy to follow”) It catches them off-guard and makes him/her less defensive. 5. Excuse yourself for a minute in midst of a heated discussion to go to toilet instead of escalating argument. 6. Hold back for thirty minutes instead of rushing to fix a problem for someone else.

Other “happy workplace” tips: 1. Keep an open mind about why person behaves in such a manner. 2. See both sides of situation, not just yours. 3. Be very specific when analyzing problem. Make a mental videotape of behavior. 4. Notice when it isn’t happening. Understand why. You may have overlooked something you did that didn’t result in other person’s annoying behavior. 5. Find someone with immunity and see how he or she successfully handles troublesome behavior that you’re struggling with.

By: Regine P. Azurin and Yvette Pantilla http://www.bizsum.com "A Lot Of Great Books....Too Little Time To Read" Free Book Summaries Of Latest Bestsellers for Busy Executives and Entrepreneurs Mailto:freearticle@bizsum.com

BusinessSummaries is a BusinessSummaries.com service. (c) Copyright 2001-2002, BusinessSummaries.com - Wisdom In A Nutshell