I’ve decided to dedicate this post to relieve some frustration. I believe there is proper email etiquette when operating a business or even personal email for that matter. There is one thing that really bugs me and that is not replying to back.

That should be the number one rule for any business or self promoting person. Always write back. Someone has taken their time to write you in the first place and most likely they are seeking advice or are interested in what you do. Not replying back really gets under my skin and there is no quicker way to send a bad impression. I can’t tell you how many times “professionals” fail to write me back when I ask them a question.

What impression does not replying give?

It’s bad for your personal reputation, it tells me you can care less about my inquiry, and it makes your whole organization look bad.

What to do if you don’t care to answer questions or disclose information?

Simply reply back. Be polite and tell them you cannot help them at this time.

Why is email etiquette (replying) so important?

In my opinion, emailing is just as important as returning a phone call. It may not be as personable, but its still a real question with a real person behind the message. What impression would it give if people in your company didn’t return phone calls? That same impression is just as important with email.

Make it a higher priority to return emails and do it in a timely manner. It just looks professional and makes the sender feel welcome and warm towards the individual or company.