Great, because you have the ability to proof read and change up what you're going to send to the recipient, CC someone else in on the conversation, take time to think what it is you're going to say and it just seems more formal than a phone call at times.
Scary, because the tone that is set from the sender is how you interpret it.
This week I sent out e-invites to select partners for the first Perth Spirit game.
One got back to me very quickly and right off the bat it was "change the picture Richard."
No hello, no greetings, just bang, he came right at me.
I felt like I was headed up the creek without a paddle.
So I replied to his email straight away explained the reason why I used the picture I did and assured him that all ongoing photos used won't be the like the first.
 | ||
| Picture of Zach Holmes I used in the invite |
He was fine with that.
Boy was I relieved. I thought I was in deep water for a moment.
Then I realized it was all just how I interpreted his email, I imagined a certain tone in the email when reading it, maybe it was there, maybe it wasn't.
I'm glad though I am no longer using a intern email address, but my own. It could've been much worse that what it was. Who knows?
I just need to look at the tone in emails as very neutral from now on, to prevent myself from freaking out.
2 comments:
Hello Richard,
I guess that you are still learning as a PR student so if ever you make a mistake, don't worry too much because they know that you are still learning.
The important part in this experience is that you learn from your mistakes and acknowledge them when they are flagged to you.
Concerning e-mails, you should always aim for a formal tone as some people might not mind the tone, but some people do, and you better be in the good rather than the bad, considering that you don't personally know your recipients.
If ever you have doubts, don't hesitate to send it to your supervisor first for approval.
Good luck for the rest of your internship Richard.
Regards,
Roxanne
Hi Richard!
As with anything in the digital age, the conveyance of tone (or lack thereof) can create both a formal or hostile correspondence setting at the touch of a button.
If given the opportunity, always clarify exactly what a response entails via face-to-face contact (e.g. interoffice communication)as this avoids sticky situations such as the one you've mentioned.
Best of luck with the rest of your internship, I'm sure you'll be on-point with the rest of your communications.
Regards,
Phoebe
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