Electronic communication - It's wrong to use e-mail when...
There are many times where electronic communication is not appropriate. Consider these examples:
Disciplinary actions.
- E-mail might provide a record regarding the action being taken, but face-to-face is still the best method for something as personal as a disciplinary action. Even if an employee is not performing well, the employee is still a person due respect.
- Proving reciept of electronic communication in the event of a legal dispute can be problematic.
When messages begin degenerating.
- There are times where the messages that are flying back and forth between parties begin to degenerate both in tone and understanding. It is important to remember that you may need to stop and use another method to work things out whether it is project details or other issues. Hold a face-to-face meeting if possible; at a minimum use a telephone call to establish more positive understanding.
Personal or confidential messages.
- Any form of electronic communication is not to be considered confidential.
This document last reviewed April 26, 2013.
