{"id":68,"date":"2021-04-10T14:40:13","date_gmt":"2021-04-10T14:40:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/correspondence-text-messages-emails-memos-and-letters\/"},"modified":"2025-07-17T15:38:10","modified_gmt":"2025-07-17T15:38:10","slug":"correspondence-text-messages-emails-memos-and-letters","status":"publish","type":"chapter","link":"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/chapter\/correspondence-text-messages-emails-memos-and-letters\/","title":{"raw":"Text Messages and Emails","rendered":"Text Messages and Emails"},"content":{"raw":"<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Learning Objectives<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nBy the end of this section, you should be able to:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Identify five strategies for using netiquette while communicating online.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Explain the four guidelines for texting in a business environment.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Recognize key elements of a strong professional email.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_67\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"333\"]<img class=\"wp-image-66\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" \/> Photo #1: Team working together[\/caption]\r\n<p class=\"nonindent no-indent\">Text messaging, emailing, and posting on social media in a professional context requires that you be familiar with [pb_glossary id=\"229\"]<strong>netiquette<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary], or proper etiquette for using the internet. We have all heard news stories about people who have been fired and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.entrepreneur.com\/article\/294925\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">companies that have been boycotted for making offensive or inappropriate social media posts<\/a>. People have even gone to prison for the <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anthony_Weiner_sexting_scandals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">illegal use of private messaging<\/a>.\u00a0 The digital world may <em>seem<\/em> like a free-for-all, \"wild wild west\" with no clear rules or regulations; however, this is a dangerous perspective for a professional, as the consequences of breaking tacit rules, expectations, and guidelines for professional communications can be very costly.<\/p>\r\nThe way that you represent yourself in writing carries significant weight. Writing in an online environment requires tact, skill, and an awareness that what you write may be accessible for a very long time and may be viewed by people you never intended to reach. From text messages to [pb_glossary id=\"223\"]<strong>memos<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] to letters, from business proposals to press releases, your written business communication represents you and your company:\u00a0 your goal is to make it clear, concise, constructive, and professional.\r\n<p class=\"nonindent no-indent\">We create personal pages, post messages, and interact via online technologies as a regular part of our careers, but how we conduct ourselves can leave a lasting image, literally. The photograph you posted on your Instagram page or another social media feed may have been seen by your potential employer, or that insensitive remark in a social media post may haunt you later.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">Guidelines for Communicating Online<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nFollowing several guidelines for online postings, as detailed below, can help you avoid embarrassment later:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Know your context<\/b>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Introduce yourself<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Avoid assumptions about your readers; remember that culture influences communication style and practices.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Familiarize yourself with your organization's policies on Acceptable Use of IT Resources.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Remember the human<\/b>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Remember, a person is behind the words; ask for clarification before judgment.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Check your <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"197\"]tone[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> before you publish; avoid jokes, sarcasm, and irony, as these can often be misinterpreted and get \"lost in translation\" in the online environment.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Respond to people using their names.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Remember that culture, age, and gender can affect how people communicate.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Remain authentic and expect the same from others.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Please note that people may not respond immediately. People participate in different ways, some just by reading the communication rather than jumping into it.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Recognize that text is permanent.<\/strong>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Be judicious and diplomatic; what you say online may be difficult or impossible to retract later.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Consider your responsibility to the group and the working environment.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>When working collaboratively, agree on ground rules for text communication (formal or informal) and seek clarification whenever needed.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Avoid flaming:\u00a0 research before you react.<\/b>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Accept and forgive mistakes.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Consider your responsibility to the group and the working environment.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Seek clarification before reacting; what you heard is not always what was intended to be said.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Ask your supervisor for guidance.*<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Respect privacy and original ideas.<\/b>\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Quote the original author if you are responding with a specific point made by someone else.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Ask the author for permission to forward the communication via email.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\"><em>* Sometimes, online behavior can appear so disrespectful and hostile that it requires attention and follow-up. In this case, inform your supervisor immediately so the right resources <\/em><em>can be called upon <\/em><em>to help.<\/em><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\nFor further information on netiquette, check out the following links:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>Business Insider: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/email-etiquette-rules-every-professional-needs-to-know-2016-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Email etiquette rules every professional needs to know<\/a><\/li>\r\n \t<li>LinkedIn: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/why-email-etiquette-important-husnain-raza\">Why is email etiquette important<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2 class=\"no-indent\">Texting<\/h2>\r\n<p class=\"no-indent\">Whatever digital device you use, written communication in the form of brief messages<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">\u00a0or texting has become a common way to connect. This is particularly true with [pb_glossary id=\"230\"]<strong>team chat applications<\/strong>[\/pb_glossary] such as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/slack.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Slack<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/microsoft-teams\/group-chat-software\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Microsoft Teams,<\/a> which are becoming increasingly popular with companies as a means for employees to communicate quickly<\/span> with each other. Short exchanges are common on these platforms. They are a convenient way to stay connected with others when talking on the phone or sending an email would be cumbersome. Texting is often the best choice if you need a quick, brief answer immediately. However, it's also important to be mindful of the company culture and what is deemed \"appropriate\" on these platforms. For example, when people text their friends and family, they often send <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"228\"] GIFs [\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> as a way to communicate their reactions. Should you also do this at your company? It depends. Some companies are okay with it, while others are not. Even if they are OK with you using GIFs, there may be rules around the types of GIFs sent. Pay attention to how others communicate in these spaces and use that as a guide for your own communication style.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"no-indent\">In summary, texting is not helpful for prolonged or complicated messages. When deciding whether a text or email is better, careful consideration should be given to the <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"202\"]audience[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>. Wouldn't it seem strange if someone sent you a text that was like an email?<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"no-indent\">Watch the short video below:<\/p>\r\n[embed]https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=ylV7QtfkBFQ[\/embed]\r\n\r\nLink to Original Video: <a href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/textonbus\">https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/textonbus<\/a>\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">When texting, always consider your audience and company, and choose words, terms, or abbreviations to deliver your message appropriately and effectively.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">Guidelines for Effective Business Texting<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nIf your work situation allows or requires you to communicate via text messages, keep the following tips in mind:\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li><strong>Know your recipient:<\/strong>\u00a0 \u201c?% dsct\u201d may be an understandable way to ask a close associate the proper discount to offer a particular customer. Still, if you are writing a text to your boss, it might be wiser to write, \u201cwhat % discount does Murray get on $1K order?\u201d<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Anticipate unintentional misinterpretation: <\/strong>Texting often uses symbols and codes to represent thoughts, ideas, and emotions. Given the complexity of communication and the valuable yet limited tool of texting, be aware of its limitations and prevent misinterpretation by using brief messages.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Use appropriately:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Contacting someone too frequently can be perceived as harassment. Texting is a tool. Use it when appropriate, but don\u2019t abuse it.<\/li>\r\n \t<li><strong>Don\u2019t text and drive<\/strong><strong>.<\/strong> Research shows that the likelihood of an accident increases dramatically if the driver is texting behind the wheel (\"Deadly Distraction,\" 2009). Being involved in an accident while conducting company business would reflect poorly on your judgment and that of your employer.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n<hr \/>\r\n\r\n<h2>Email<\/h2>\r\n[caption id=\"attachment_67\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"300\"]<img class=\"wp-image-67 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" \/> Photo #2: Email Platform[\/caption]\r\n<p class=\"nonindent no-indent\">Email is familiar to most students and workers. In business, it has primarily replaced print hard copy <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"225\"]letters[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> for external (outside the company) correspondence. In many cases, it has taken the place of <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"223\"]memos[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> for internal (within the company) communication (Guffey, 2008). Email can be handy for messages with slightly more content than text messages, but it is still best used for brief messages. Many businesses use automated emails to acknowledge communications from the public or to remind associates that periodic reports or payments are due. You may also be assigned to \u201cpopulate\u201d a form email in which standard paragraphs are used, but you choose from a menu of sentences to make the wording suitable for a particular transaction.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Emails may be informal in personal contexts, but business communication requires attention to detail, awareness that your email reflects you and your company, and a professional tone\u00a0so that it may be forwarded to any third party if needed. Email often serves to exchange information within organizations. Although email may have an informal feel, remember that it should convey professionalism and respect when used for business purposes. Never write or send anything you wouldn\u2019t want to read publicly or in front of your company president. As with all writing, professional communications require attention to the specific writing context, and it may surprise you that even elements of form can indicate a writer\u2019s strong understanding of <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"202\"]audience[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> and purpose. The principles explained here also apply to the educational context; use them when communicating with your instructors and classroom peers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">Guidelines for Effective Business Emails<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\n<strong>Open with a proper salutation<\/strong><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>. <\/strong>Proper<\/span> salutations demonstrate respect and avoid mix-ups if a message is accidentally sent to the wrong recipient. For example, use a salutation like \u201cDear Ms. X\u201d (external) or \u201cHi Barry\u201d (internal).\r\n\r\n<strong>Include a clear, brief, and specific subject line: <\/strong>this helps the recipient understand the essence of the message. For example, \u201cProposal attached\u201d or \u201cElectrical specs for project Y.\u201d\r\n\r\n<b>Close with a signature:<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Identify<\/span>\u00a0yourself by creating a signature block that automatically contains your name and business contact information.\r\n\r\n<b>Avoid abbreviations<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>An<\/span>\u00a0email is not a text message, and the audience may not find your wit funny enough to ROTFLOL (roll on the floor laughing out loud).\r\n\r\n<b>Be brief:\u00a0<\/b> omit unnecessary words.\r\n\r\n<b>Use a good format:<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Divide your message into brief paragraphs for easy reading. A good email should be concise and conclude in three short<\/span> paragraphs or fewer.\r\n\r\n<b>Reread, revise, and review:\u00a0<\/b> catch and correct spelling and grammar mistakes before you press \u201csend.\u201d It will take more time and effort to undo the problems caused by a hasty, poorly written email than to take the time to get it right the first time.\r\n\r\n<b>Reply promptly<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Watch<\/span> out for an emotional response\u2014never reply in anger\u2014but make a habit of responding to all emails within twenty-four hours, even if only to say that you will provide the requested information in forty-eight or seventy-two hours.\r\n\r\n<b>Use \u201cReply All\u201d sparingly<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Do<\/span> not send your reply to everyone who received the initial email unless your message needs to be read by the entire group.\r\n\r\n<b>Avoid using all caps<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Capital<\/span>\u00a0letters are used on the Internet to communicate emphatic emotion or yelling and are considered rude.\r\n\r\n<b>Test links:\u00a0<\/b> if you include a link, test it to ensure it works.\r\n\r\n<b>Email ahead of time if you are going to attach large files<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Audio<\/span> and visual files can be extensive; be cautious not to exceed the recipient\u2019s mailbox limit or trigger the spam filter.\r\n\r\n<strong style=\"font-size: 1em;\">Provide feedback or follow up:\u00a0<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">If you don\u2019t receive a response within twenty-four hours, email or call<\/span>. Spam filters may have intercepted your message, so your recipient may never have received it.\r\n\r\n<strong>Tip<\/strong>: Add the recipient's address last to avoid sending it prematurely. This will give you time to review what you've written, ensure links work, add the attachment,\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><em>and so on<\/em><\/span>, before adding the sender's address and hitting send.\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\nThe sample email below demonstrates the principles listed above.\r\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\">\r\n<p id=\"email\">From: Arnie Aardvark &lt;aaardvark@ppsc.edu&gt;<\/p>\r\nTo: Human Resources Division &lt;hr@ppsc.com&gt;\r\n\r\nDate: September 12, 2026\r\n\r\nSubject: Safe Zone Training\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p class=\"nonindent\">Dear Colleagues:<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"nonindent\">Please consider signing up for the next Safe Zone workshop offered by the College. As you are aware, our department is working to increase the number of Safe Zone volunteers in our area. I hope several of you will be available for the next workshop, which is scheduled for Friday, October 9.<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Please visit the college website for more information on the Safe Zone program.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Please let me know if you will attend.<\/p>\r\n&nbsp;\r\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Arnie Aardvark<\/p>\r\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Pikes Peak State College\r\naaardvark@ppsc.edu<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--key-takeaways\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n<ul>\r\n \t<li>All companies utilize digital communication to some extent. As a result, how you represent yourself in digital spaces will have an impact\u2014either positive or negative\u2014on how others view you professionally. This is why you must be familiar with the principles of <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"229\"]netiquette[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong>, which suggest how to communicate in these spaces.<\/li>\r\n \t<li>The core principles of netiquette include:\r\n<ol>\r\n \t<li>Know your context<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Remember the human<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Recognize that text is permanent<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Avoid flaming: research before you react<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Respect privacy and original ideas<\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<\/li>\r\n \t<li>Texting is often the best way to communicate small amounts of information.\u00a0 Email, on the other hand, is best when a message has more content. However, brevity remains essential, as does attention to detail. Even if you are communicating with colleagues, a poorly formatted, error-heavy email can reflect poorly on your <strong>[pb_glossary id=\"210\"]credibility[\/pb_glossary]<\/strong> as a professional.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--examples\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">References<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n<p id=\"a0\">Akhtar,\u00a0A., &amp; Ward,\u00a0M. (2020, September 4).\u00a0<em>Fifteen email etiquette rules every professional should know<\/em>. Business Insider. Retrieved\u00a0September\u00a010, 2021, from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/email-etiquette-rules-every-professional-needs-to-know-2016-1\">https:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/email-etiquette-rules-every-professional-needs-to-know-2016-1<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p id=\"a1\"><em>Anthony Weiner sexting scandals<\/em>. (2011, June 2). Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved\u00a0September\u00a010, 2021, from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anthony_Weiner_sexting_scandals\">https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anthony_Weiner_sexting_scandals<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p id=\"a2\"><em>Deadly distraction: Texting while driving should be banned<\/em>. (2009, September 22). Chron.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.chron.com\/opinion\/editorials\/article\/Deadly-distraction-Texting-while-driving-should-1592397.php\">https:\/\/www.chron.com\/opinion\/editorials\/article\/Deadly-distraction-Texting-while-driving-should-1592397.php<\/a><\/p>\r\nGuffey,\u00a0M.\u00a0E. (2008).\u00a0<em>Essentials of business communication<\/em>\u00a0(7th\u00a0ed.). Thomson\/Wadsworth.\r\n<p id=\"a3\">Raza,\u00a0H. (2019, August 7).\u00a0<em>Why is email etiquette important!<\/em>\u00a0LinkedIn.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/why-email-etiquette-important-husnain-raza\">https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/why-email-etiquette-important-husnain-raza<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p id=\"a4\"><em>The seven biggest social media fails of 2017<\/em>. (2018, January 17). Entrepreneur.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.entrepreneur.com\/article\/294925\">https:\/\/www.entrepreneur.com\/article\/294925<\/a><\/p>\r\n<p id=\"a5\">Workopolis. (2018, March 7).\u00a0<em>Fourteen Canadians who were fired for social media posts<\/em>. Workopolis Blog.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/careers.workopolis.com\/advice\/14-canadians-who-were-fired-for-social-media-posts\/\">https:\/\/careers.workopolis.com\/advice\/14-canadians-who-were-fired-for-social-media-posts\/<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>\r\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\"><header class=\"textbox__header\">\r\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Attributions<\/p>\r\n\r\n<\/header>\r\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\r\n\r\nThis chapter is adapted from <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/technicalwriting\/chapter\/correspondence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\"Technical Writing Essentials\"<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0Suzan Last (on <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BCcampus<\/a>). It is licensed under <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\">Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License<\/a>,\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/MChSQHxGZrQ\">Photo #1<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/@anniespratt\">Annie Spratt<\/a> on <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/\">Unsplash<\/a>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/3Mhgvrk4tjM\">Photo #2<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/@hostreviews\">Stephen Phillips<\/a> on <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/\">Unsplash<\/a>\r\n\r\n<\/div>\r\n<\/div>","rendered":"<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Learning Objectives<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>By the end of this section, you should be able to:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Identify five strategies for using netiquette while communicating online.<\/li>\n<li>Explain the four guidelines for texting in a business environment.<\/li>\n<li>Recognize key elements of a strong professional email.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<figure id=\"attachment_67\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-67\" style=\"width: 333px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-66\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"333\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash.jpg 640w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash-65x98.jpg 65w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash-225x338.jpg 225w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2021\/05\/annie-spratt-MChSQHxGZrQ-unsplash-350x525.jpg 350w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 333px) 100vw, 333px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-67\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo #1: Team working together<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"nonindent no-indent\">Text messaging, emailing, and posting on social media in a professional context requires that you be familiar with <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_229\"><strong>netiquette<\/strong><\/a>, or proper etiquette for using the internet. We have all heard news stories about people who have been fired and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.entrepreneur.com\/article\/294925\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">companies that have been boycotted for making offensive or inappropriate social media posts<\/a>. People have even gone to prison for the <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anthony_Weiner_sexting_scandals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">illegal use of private messaging<\/a>.\u00a0 The digital world may <em>seem<\/em> like a free-for-all, &#8220;wild wild west&#8221; with no clear rules or regulations; however, this is a dangerous perspective for a professional, as the consequences of breaking tacit rules, expectations, and guidelines for professional communications can be very costly.<\/p>\n<p>The way that you represent yourself in writing carries significant weight. Writing in an online environment requires tact, skill, and an awareness that what you write may be accessible for a very long time and may be viewed by people you never intended to reach. From text messages to <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_223\"><strong>memos<\/strong><\/a> to letters, from business proposals to press releases, your written business communication represents you and your company:\u00a0 your goal is to make it clear, concise, constructive, and professional.<\/p>\n<p class=\"nonindent no-indent\">We create personal pages, post messages, and interact via online technologies as a regular part of our careers, but how we conduct ourselves can leave a lasting image, literally. The photograph you posted on your Instagram page or another social media feed may have been seen by your potential employer, or that insensitive remark in a social media post may haunt you later.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">Guidelines for Communicating Online<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>Following several guidelines for online postings, as detailed below, can help you avoid embarrassment later:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Know your context<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li>Introduce yourself<\/li>\n<li>Avoid assumptions about your readers; remember that culture influences communication style and practices.<\/li>\n<li>Familiarize yourself with your organization&#8217;s policies on Acceptable Use of IT Resources.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Remember the human<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li>Remember, a person is behind the words; ask for clarification before judgment.<\/li>\n<li>Check your <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_197\">tone<\/a><\/strong> before you publish; avoid jokes, sarcasm, and irony, as these can often be misinterpreted and get &#8220;lost in translation&#8221; in the online environment.<\/li>\n<li>Respond to people using their names.<\/li>\n<li>Remember that culture, age, and gender can affect how people communicate.<\/li>\n<li>Remain authentic and expect the same from others.<\/li>\n<li>Please note that people may not respond immediately. People participate in different ways, some just by reading the communication rather than jumping into it.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Recognize that text is permanent.<\/strong>\n<ul>\n<li>Be judicious and diplomatic; what you say online may be difficult or impossible to retract later.<\/li>\n<li>Consider your responsibility to the group and the working environment.<\/li>\n<li>When working collaboratively, agree on ground rules for text communication (formal or informal) and seek clarification whenever needed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Avoid flaming:\u00a0 research before you react.<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li>Accept and forgive mistakes.<\/li>\n<li>Consider your responsibility to the group and the working environment.<\/li>\n<li>Seek clarification before reacting; what you heard is not always what was intended to be said.<\/li>\n<li>Ask your supervisor for guidance.*<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li class=\"indent no-indent\"><b>Respect privacy and original ideas.<\/b>\n<ul>\n<li>Quote the original author if you are responding with a specific point made by someone else.<\/li>\n<li>Ask the author for permission to forward the communication via email.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\"><em>* Sometimes, online behavior can appear so disrespectful and hostile that it requires attention and follow-up. In this case, inform your supervisor immediately so the right resources <\/em><em>can be called upon <\/em><em>to help.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>For further information on netiquette, check out the following links:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Business Insider: <a href=\"http:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/email-etiquette-rules-every-professional-needs-to-know-2016-1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Email etiquette rules every professional needs to know<\/a><\/li>\n<li>LinkedIn: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/why-email-etiquette-important-husnain-raza\">Why is email etiquette important<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"no-indent\">Texting<\/h2>\n<p class=\"no-indent\">Whatever digital device you use, written communication in the form of brief messages<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\">\u00a0or texting has become a common way to connect. This is particularly true with <a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_230\"><strong>team chat applications<\/strong><\/a> such as\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/slack.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Slack<\/a>\u00a0and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.microsoft.com\/en-us\/microsoft-teams\/group-chat-software\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Microsoft Teams,<\/a> which are becoming increasingly popular with companies as a means for employees to communicate quickly<\/span> with each other. Short exchanges are common on these platforms. They are a convenient way to stay connected with others when talking on the phone or sending an email would be cumbersome. Texting is often the best choice if you need a quick, brief answer immediately. However, it&#8217;s also important to be mindful of the company culture and what is deemed &#8220;appropriate&#8221; on these platforms. For example, when people text their friends and family, they often send <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_228\"> GIFs <\/a><\/strong> as a way to communicate their reactions. Should you also do this at your company? It depends. Some companies are okay with it, while others are not. Even if they are OK with you using GIFs, there may be rules around the types of GIFs sent. Pay attention to how others communicate in these spaces and use that as a guide for your own communication style.<\/p>\n<p class=\"no-indent\">In summary, texting is not helpful for prolonged or complicated messages. When deciding whether a text or email is better, careful consideration should be given to the <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_202\">audience<\/a><\/strong>. Wouldn&#8217;t it seem strange if someone sent you a text that was like an email?<\/p>\n<p class=\"no-indent\">Watch the short video below:<\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" id=\"oembed-1\" title=\"Funny text message conversation between Jake Peralta and Captain Raymond Holt.\" width=\"500\" height=\"281\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/ylV7QtfkBFQ?feature=oembed&#38;rel=0\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<p>Link to Original Video: <a href=\"https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/textonbus\">https:\/\/tinyurl.com\/textonbus<\/a><\/p>\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">When texting, always consider your audience and company, and choose words, terms, or abbreviations to deliver your message appropriately and effectively.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">Guidelines for Effective Business Texting<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>If your work situation allows or requires you to communicate via text messages, keep the following tips in mind:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Know your recipient:<\/strong>\u00a0 \u201c?% dsct\u201d may be an understandable way to ask a close associate the proper discount to offer a particular customer. Still, if you are writing a text to your boss, it might be wiser to write, \u201cwhat % discount does Murray get on $1K order?\u201d<\/li>\n<li><strong>Anticipate unintentional misinterpretation: <\/strong>Texting often uses symbols and codes to represent thoughts, ideas, and emotions. Given the complexity of communication and the valuable yet limited tool of texting, be aware of its limitations and prevent misinterpretation by using brief messages.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Use appropriately:<\/strong><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Contacting someone too frequently can be perceived as harassment. Texting is a tool. Use it when appropriate, but don\u2019t abuse it.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Don\u2019t text and drive<\/strong><strong>.<\/strong> Research shows that the likelihood of an accident increases dramatically if the driver is texting behind the wheel (&#8220;Deadly Distraction,&#8221; 2009). Being involved in an accident while conducting company business would reflect poorly on your judgment and that of your employer.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<hr \/>\n<h2>Email<\/h2>\n<figure id=\"attachment_67\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-67\" style=\"width: 300px\" class=\"wp-caption alignright\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-67 size-medium\" src=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/ppsccom2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash-300x200.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" srcset=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash-65x43.jpg 65w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash-350x234.jpg 350w, https:\/\/pressbooks.ccconline.org\/2250organizationalcommunication\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/231\/2025\/03\/stephen-phillips-hostreviews-co-uk-3Mhgvrk4tjM-unsplash.jpg 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><figcaption id=\"caption-attachment-67\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photo #2: Email Platform<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"nonindent no-indent\">Email is familiar to most students and workers. In business, it has primarily replaced print hard copy <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_225\">letters<\/a><\/strong> for external (outside the company) correspondence. In many cases, it has taken the place of <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_223\">memos<\/a><\/strong> for internal (within the company) communication (Guffey, 2008). Email can be handy for messages with slightly more content than text messages, but it is still best used for brief messages. Many businesses use automated emails to acknowledge communications from the public or to remind associates that periodic reports or payments are due. You may also be assigned to \u201cpopulate\u201d a form email in which standard paragraphs are used, but you choose from a menu of sentences to make the wording suitable for a particular transaction.<\/p>\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Emails may be informal in personal contexts, but business communication requires attention to detail, awareness that your email reflects you and your company, and a professional tone\u00a0so that it may be forwarded to any third party if needed. Email often serves to exchange information within organizations. Although email may have an informal feel, remember that it should convey professionalism and respect when used for business purposes. Never write or send anything you wouldn\u2019t want to read publicly or in front of your company president. As with all writing, professional communications require attention to the specific writing context, and it may surprise you that even elements of form can indicate a writer\u2019s strong understanding of <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_202\">audience<\/a><\/strong> and purpose. The principles explained here also apply to the educational context; use them when communicating with your instructors and classroom peers.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--learning-objectives\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">Guidelines for Effective Business Emails<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p><strong>Open with a proper salutation<\/strong><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>. <\/strong>Proper<\/span> salutations demonstrate respect and avoid mix-ups if a message is accidentally sent to the wrong recipient. For example, use a salutation like \u201cDear Ms. X\u201d (external) or \u201cHi Barry\u201d (internal).<\/p>\n<p><strong>Include a clear, brief, and specific subject line: <\/strong>this helps the recipient understand the essence of the message. For example, \u201cProposal attached\u201d or \u201cElectrical specs for project Y.\u201d<\/p>\n<p><b>Close with a signature:<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Identify<\/span>\u00a0yourself by creating a signature block that automatically contains your name and business contact information.<\/p>\n<p><b>Avoid abbreviations<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>An<\/span>\u00a0email is not a text message, and the audience may not find your wit funny enough to ROTFLOL (roll on the floor laughing out loud).<\/p>\n<p><b>Be brief:\u00a0<\/b> omit unnecessary words.<\/p>\n<p><b>Use a good format:<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>\u00a0<\/strong>Divide your message into brief paragraphs for easy reading. A good email should be concise and conclude in three short<\/span> paragraphs or fewer.<\/p>\n<p><b>Reread, revise, and review:\u00a0<\/b> catch and correct spelling and grammar mistakes before you press \u201csend.\u201d It will take more time and effort to undo the problems caused by a hasty, poorly written email than to take the time to get it right the first time.<\/p>\n<p><b>Reply promptly<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Watch<\/span> out for an emotional response\u2014never reply in anger\u2014but make a habit of responding to all emails within twenty-four hours, even if only to say that you will provide the requested information in forty-eight or seventy-two hours.<\/p>\n<p><b>Use \u201cReply All\u201d sparingly<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Do<\/span> not send your reply to everyone who received the initial email unless your message needs to be read by the entire group.<\/p>\n<p><b>Avoid using all caps<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Capital<\/span>\u00a0letters are used on the Internet to communicate emphatic emotion or yelling and are considered rude.<\/p>\n<p><b>Test links:\u00a0<\/b> if you include a link, test it to ensure it works.<\/p>\n<p><b>Email ahead of time if you are going to attach large files<\/b><span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><strong>.\u00a0<\/strong>Audio<\/span> and visual files can be extensive; be cautious not to exceed the recipient\u2019s mailbox limit or trigger the spam filter.<\/p>\n<p><strong style=\"font-size: 1em;\">Provide feedback or follow up:\u00a0<\/strong><span style=\"font-size: 1em;\">If you don\u2019t receive a response within twenty-four hours, email or call<\/span>. Spam filters may have intercepted your message, so your recipient may never have received it.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Tip<\/strong>: Add the recipient&#8217;s address last to avoid sending it prematurely. This will give you time to review what you&#8217;ve written, ensure links work, add the attachment,\u00a0<span style=\"margin: 0px; padding: 0px;\"><em>and so on<\/em><\/span>, before adding the sender&#8217;s address and hitting send.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>The sample email below demonstrates the principles listed above.<\/p>\n<div class=\"textbox shaded\">\n<p id=\"email\">From: Arnie Aardvark &lt;aaardvark@ppsc.edu&gt;<\/p>\n<p>To: Human Resources Division &lt;hr@ppsc.com&gt;<\/p>\n<p>Date: September 12, 2026<\/p>\n<p>Subject: Safe Zone Training<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"nonindent\">Dear Colleagues:<\/p>\n<p class=\"nonindent\">Please consider signing up for the next Safe Zone workshop offered by the College. As you are aware, our department is working to increase the number of Safe Zone volunteers in our area. I hope several of you will be available for the next workshop, which is scheduled for Friday, October 9.<\/p>\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Please visit the college website for more information on the Safe Zone program.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Please let me know if you will attend.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Arnie Aardvark<\/p>\n<p class=\"indent no-indent\">Pikes Peak State College<br \/>\naaardvark@ppsc.edu<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--key-takeaways\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Key Takeaways<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<ul>\n<li>All companies utilize digital communication to some extent. As a result, how you represent yourself in digital spaces will have an impact\u2014either positive or negative\u2014on how others view you professionally. This is why you must be familiar with the principles of <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_229\">netiquette<\/a><\/strong>, which suggest how to communicate in these spaces.<\/li>\n<li>The core principles of netiquette include:\n<ol>\n<li>Know your context<\/li>\n<li>Remember the human<\/li>\n<li>Recognize that text is permanent<\/li>\n<li>Avoid flaming: research before you react<\/li>\n<li>Respect privacy and original ideas<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<li>Texting is often the best way to communicate small amounts of information.\u00a0 Email, on the other hand, is best when a message has more content. However, brevity remains essential, as does attention to detail. Even if you are communicating with colleagues, a poorly formatted, error-heavy email can reflect poorly on your <strong><a class=\"glossary-term\" aria-haspopup=\"dialog\" aria-describedby=\"definition\" href=\"#term_68_210\">credibility<\/a><\/strong> as a professional.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--examples\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">References<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p id=\"a0\">Akhtar,\u00a0A., &amp; Ward,\u00a0M. (2020, September 4).\u00a0<em>Fifteen email etiquette rules every professional should know<\/em>. Business Insider. Retrieved\u00a0September\u00a010, 2021, from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/email-etiquette-rules-every-professional-needs-to-know-2016-1\">https:\/\/www.businessinsider.com\/email-etiquette-rules-every-professional-needs-to-know-2016-1<\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"a1\"><em>Anthony Weiner sexting scandals<\/em>. (2011, June 2). Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved\u00a0September\u00a010, 2021, from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anthony_Weiner_sexting_scandals\">https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anthony_Weiner_sexting_scandals<\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"a2\"><em>Deadly distraction: Texting while driving should be banned<\/em>. (2009, September 22). Chron.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.chron.com\/opinion\/editorials\/article\/Deadly-distraction-Texting-while-driving-should-1592397.php\">https:\/\/www.chron.com\/opinion\/editorials\/article\/Deadly-distraction-Texting-while-driving-should-1592397.php<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Guffey,\u00a0M.\u00a0E. (2008).\u00a0<em>Essentials of business communication<\/em>\u00a0(7th\u00a0ed.). Thomson\/Wadsworth.<\/p>\n<p id=\"a3\">Raza,\u00a0H. (2019, August 7).\u00a0<em>Why is email etiquette important!<\/em>\u00a0LinkedIn.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/why-email-etiquette-important-husnain-raza\">https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/pulse\/why-email-etiquette-important-husnain-raza<\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"a4\"><em>The seven biggest social media fails of 2017<\/em>. (2018, January 17). Entrepreneur.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.entrepreneur.com\/article\/294925\">https:\/\/www.entrepreneur.com\/article\/294925<\/a><\/p>\n<p id=\"a5\">Workopolis. (2018, March 7).\u00a0<em>Fourteen Canadians who were fired for social media posts<\/em>. Workopolis Blog.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/careers.workopolis.com\/advice\/14-canadians-who-were-fired-for-social-media-posts\/\">https:\/\/careers.workopolis.com\/advice\/14-canadians-who-were-fired-for-social-media-posts\/<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"textbox textbox--exercises\">\n<header class=\"textbox__header\">\n<p class=\"textbox__title\">Attributions<\/p>\n<\/header>\n<div class=\"textbox__content\">\n<p>This chapter is adapted from <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/technicalwriting\/chapter\/correspondence\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">&#8220;Technical Writing Essentials&#8221;<\/a>\u00a0by\u00a0Suzan Last (on <a href=\"https:\/\/pressbooks.bccampus.ca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">BCcampus<\/a>). It is licensed under <a href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-sa\/4.0\/\">Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License<\/a>,<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/MChSQHxGZrQ\">Photo #1<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/@anniespratt\">Annie Spratt<\/a> on <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/\">Unsplash<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/photos\/3Mhgvrk4tjM\">Photo #2<\/a> by <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/@hostreviews\">Stephen Phillips<\/a> on <a href=\"https:\/\/unsplash.com\/\">Unsplash<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"glossary\"><span class=\"screen-reader-text\" id=\"definition\">definition<\/span><template id=\"term_68_229\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_229\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>etiquette for using the internet, or more specifically, communicating in online spaces. This includes (1) knowing your context, (2) remembering the human, (3) recognizing that text is permanent, (4) avoiding flaming, and (5) respecting privacy and original ideas<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_223\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_223\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>full name \"memoranda,\" these are documents sent within an organization to pass along or request information, outline policies, present short reports, or propose ideas<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_197\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_197\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>the attitude of a communicator toward the message being delivered and\/or the audience receiving the message<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_230\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_230\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>a program, such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, that companies use to promote efficient communication across their workforce<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_228\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_228\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>an image file that is usually animated in some way<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_202\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_202\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>the receiver or receivers of a message<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_225\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_225\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>a brief message to recipients that are often outside the organization<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close definition<\/span><\/button><\/div><\/template><template id=\"term_68_210\"><div class=\"glossary__definition\" role=\"dialog\" data-id=\"term_68_210\"><div tabindex=\"-1\"><p>a quality that allows others to trust and believe you<\/p>\n<\/div><button><span aria-hidden=\"true\">&times;<\/span><span class=\"screen-reader-text\">Close 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