Check the Details
If you have ever observed Dog Daycare, you will likely note groups in the various rooms or yards present. Not every dog has the same play style as another and some dogs just don’t like certain behavior. The dog in the wrong group will find itself running for cover. The same can be said for humans.
Recently, a company shared with us an email they were forwarded. In the email, their client was providing information on a colleague who was seeking the services they offered . The email was meant to be an advisement that this other colleague was interested in their services and might be calling. This all seems great until they read the last comment.
We will not share the exact comment here but the referring firm essentially indicated that another service provider could be better or cheaper but they did not have the time to research. We are confident the referring firm did not intend to share that with the company. They clearly did not edit the email before they forwarded it. The sting was felt by the company and the damage to that relationship was done.
Forwarding work emails are often a quick and efficient manner to share information with others. However, we all need to take the time to review, in detail, what is actually in that email. Personal information, personal commentary, or confidential information should always be removed before the email is forwarded. The consequences can vary from bruised egos to illegal sharing of information. Nothing on this spectrum of consequences is good. In fact, positive working relationships can go bad right away, never to be repaired.
The next time you forward an email, take a deep breath, and review the email in detail, including attachments. When you have confirmed all is clear to forward, go ahead, and hit send. Always apply patience and know that send button can be both your friend and your enemy in today’s digital world.
Do not find yourself in the wrong yard with upset people who might wish to run you out to the street. An experience like the one we mentioned here can alter a working relationship forever. And, not in a good way.
Be well.
