3 email mistakes that could cost you your career

Email is quick and convenient and in an age where face-to-face communication is a rarity, it’s often the go-to means of interaction. Before you hit the “send” button be sure to consider the following email mistakes that are commonly made, many of which could cost you your career.

Communicating workplace gossip

You may not want to confront a colleague about a juicy tidbit you heard around the office. But, don’t email anyone about this salacious gossip either, as it may come back to haunt you. Once an email is sent and the correspondence is on record, it’s almost impossible to take it back. You may think you can trust the person you’re emailing, but your coworker may use this sensitive information to their advantage if the opportunity presents itself.

Not responding to messages (or responding too slowly)

When someone sends you a message via email, whether it’s a coworker or a business connection, they expect you to confirm receipt of their message by sending a response. Even if you don’t think a reply is necessarily warranted, go out of your way to let the sender know their message was received. Additionally, most professionals expect a response within 12 to 24 hours from when their original message was sent. Failure to respond (or taking too long to reply) may put strain on your work relationships or cause you to lose a potential business partner.

Sending inappropriate matter

Even if you’re friendly with your colleagues, be very careful the type of matter you’re sending to them via email. Whether it’s a political message, personal photos, or jokes that some may deem inappropriate, your work email should be used strictly for that purpose- work. If your superior catches wind that you’re emailing inappropriate things through your office account, it may end up getting you reprimanded or even let go.