- Ever find yourself in that mindset of trying to clear out your email inbox quickly, but because you're in a rush, you make a mistake in replying? Then you have to send a follow-up email to clean up your mistake. I think we all have. There's a simple trick to make sure this doesn't happen to you. Count to 10 before you send. Cultivate the habit at the end of every email to pause, count to 10, and review your work. What are you reviewing? First, check the subject line, and make sure it's on topic and typo-free.
Second, check the body of your email for any obvious mistakes. Many email programs have a built-in spellchecker. So if you see any red squiggly lines warning you of a potential error, resolve them. Third, make sure you're not sending an emotional email. Email is for information and tasks. Conversations are better for emotion. So if what you're trying to convey is your opinion on a sensitive subject, perhaps a phone call or even a video email would be better.
Last, check for attachments. If you said you would send someone something in the email, double-check that the link is correct or the file is properly attached. One extra tip, some email programs, such as Outlook on the Web and Gmail, have an option for Undo Send. This provides a small delay before an email is delivered. And during that delay, you have the opportunity to click Undo Send if you change your mind.
I've found that useful on many occasions. Remember, take a moment to review that email. Count to 10 before you send.
Author
Updated
4/15/2019Released
4/11/2016Productivity expert Dave Crenshaw provides techniques on a wide variety of topics, designed to help people better manage their time and ultimately become more productive. Tune in to learn about everything from managing emails and calendars to setting priorities, collaborating with coworkers, reducing interruptions, crafting a "productivity mindset," and creating a more comfortable and effective work environment.
Have an idea for a future video from Dave? Submit it using our course feedback form. If you want more time management strategies now, we recommend watching Dave's Time Management Fundamentals course.
- Reducing interruptions
- Dealing with feeling overwhelmed
- Responding to quick questions
- Making the most of meetings
- Following up
- Implementing a closed door, open calendar policy
Skill Level Intermediate
Duration
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Introduction
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Welcome43s
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1. Time Management Tips
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Power tips for sending email3m 14s
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Positive procrastination3m 15s
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Remove the "busy" tag2m 58s
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Manage digital interruptions4m 19s
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Make the most of meetings2m 52s
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Follow up on delegated items2m 58s
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Become tech savvy4m 33s
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Focus on the person2m 37s
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Time management for students2m 59s
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Ending meetings with action1m 44s
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Building a not-to-do list2m 46s
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Avoiding the crowd mindset2m 58s
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Placing a value on your time3m 30s
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How to schedule a meeting3m 35s
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How to develop flexibility4m 19s
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The trouble with texting3m 48s
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Create a perhaps list4m 58s
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Reduce attention switches4m 46s
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Adapt your favorite app4m 33s
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Make time to get more time3m 49s
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Read vs. unread email3m 52s
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Make time to have fun3m 57s
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Create a morning ritual3m 23s
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When to create new homes3m 26s
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How to reduce spam3m 48s
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Why repetition saves time2m 48s
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Productive passwords2m 3s
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Productive web browser tips1m 51s
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Writing a productive email1m 55s
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Commit to your calendar1m 54s
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What to say instead of ASAP1m 46s
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Set voicemail expectations1m 43s
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Set email expectations1m 46s
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How to use an inbox1m 41s
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How to use an outbox1m 53s
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Video: What to do before sending an email