Email is  a primary source of communication. With increasing concerns related to privacy, security, freedom of speech as well as honesty and confidentiality, it is more important now than ever to handle this form of communications professionally. Since this is written communication, such information should be written in a manner consistent with traditional proper business communication guidelines.

Always consider the target audience and the message when deciding whether to communicate something face- to- face, by telephone, by formal letter or by email. Keep in mind that due to lack of tone and other non verbal cues, email and other written correspondence are the easiest to misinterpret or misunderstand.

Some quick guidelines on email etiquette:

1. Use clear, meaningful subject lines.
2. Target the audience carefully, sending information only to those individuals or groups that "need to know". Avoid using "everyone" emails.
3. Email is not the proper method for communicating matters that may be construed as negative feedback or complaints. Face- to- face discussions to work out conflict is always the best approach.
4. Be sure to have a "signature section" of your email so it is always clear as to who submitted the email.
5. Never forward another person's email without permission to do so.
6. Use "read receipt and request delivery" sparingly.
7. Always proof your messages.
8. Avoid overuse of "high priority" option.
9. Avoid internet jargon and abbreviations.
10. Close your email as you would other letters even if just "thanks for your time"; I appreciate your response"...etc
11. Never use capital letters as it is received as "shouting".
12. Confidential information should generally not be sent via email without the use of encryption software.
13. Do not send licensed material or programs.

Some basic guidelines to follow are:

• Be clean and neat, including your fingernails, teeth, shoes, hair and face
• Conservative dress attire, business casual is often safe, suits appropriate for some organizations and positions
• Empty pockets, avoid clinging of coins/keys, avoid annoying distractions
• No visible body piercing (nose, eyebrow, tongue, etc.) -wear minimum jewelry and cologne

Clothing

• The clothes you wear affect all your attitude and confidence levels as well as the level of "respect" those you interact with will give you.
• There are no absolute rules regarding dress. Your selection will vary based on your occupation, location, and preference.  Do not be oversensitive to your organization's policy on dress.  Employers do have a say in the image they desire to project through employees. 
• The goal is to look the part, and your appearance should be consistent with your occupation. Neat, clean work clothes would be suitable for assembly, production, or warehouse positions. Sales and office positions require business clothes. A conservative suit would be the recommended style for professional and managerial positions.
• Common sense and good taste are the best guides in selecting clothing.
•  Avoid faddish styles and loud colors. Jewelry should be conservative and kept to a minimum.
• Clothing should fit comfortably. You want the focus to be on your skills, not on your clothes.

Grooming

Personal grooming is just as important as what you wear. You may select the right clothes, but neglecting personal hygiene can ruin the image you wish to present.  Ensure you are clean and fresh daily, use makeup and perfume/cologne sparingly. Cover inappropriate tattoos and piercings that would project an image contrary to the role you are in and the organization you are working in. 

 Behaviors in and out of work