Amiss and Remiss ... close but not the same

At a seminar last week, the speaker said " I would be AMISS if I didn't mention....". Something sounded AMISS, and we did not want to be REMISS in excluding it from our blog. With further investigation, we can see how the mistake could be easily made as their meanings are somewhat similar.

AMISS - not quite right; inappropriate or out of place
                       There was something amiss in the classroom.

REMISS - negligent or careless; slow in performing one's duties
                   As writing tip bloggers, we would be remiss if we didn't clarify these differences for our readers

Everyday Email Etiquette

A few reminders worth remembering:

ALWAYS INCLUDE BASIC GREETINGS

Simple but kind salutations work well in the electronic world. Use the recipient's name and be polite, yet brief and concise.

DON'T SEND BEFORE YOU INTEND TO

It is quite unprofessional to send an email before it is complete, proofed and copied to the appropriate people. ALWAYS type and proof your email BEFORE filling in the TO and CC fields.

REVIEW ALL RELATED MESSAGES BEFORE REPLYING

Although cumbersome, spend the time reviewing all related emails when you have been away from your desk for a time. Replying to something that has already been handled by a colleague or even the person who sent the email is confusing and can cause errors and wasted time.

YOUR SUBJECT LINE ... MAKE IT COUNT

Choosing a creative, interesting or highly relevant subject line is of paramount importance when trying to get your message read, heard and acted upon. Remember that people are busy and you are competing with hundreds and maybe thousands of other emails for mental real estate.

NEVER EMAIL IN ANGER

An email tainted by explosive emotion is not only unprofessional and inappropriate, it actually has MUCH LESS effect than a calm, professional presentation of facts and issues coupled with a clear call to action. 

'til next time,

Your CYA Team