Email is a necessary evil. We need it to conduct business, but it can become a thorn in our side, especially if it’s not managed well, because it can quickly get out of control. However, if you follow a few tips, you can keep it tamed.
The main thing that you want to do is to process each email as you read it, and take one of the following actions:
Delete – If it’s not important, go ahead and click the delete button.
Forward – If it needs to be sent to a team member or colleague, send it immediately upon determining this.
Respond – If you can provide an answer now, do so, especially if it will only take you a moment.
Keep it – If it’s something that you will need to refer back to later, go ahead and move it to a folder.
Schedule it – If you need to take action on it, but it’s something that will take longer than a couple of minutes, either add it to your calendar or task list so that it has a due date and reminder.
Take action on gaining control of your email inbox today. Remember, you can always delegate this process as well.
