Email efficiency alert: Immediate email responses CAN’T be the norm!

There was a very interesting article in the NY Times yesterday – on the front page of their business section. 

I’m afraid I take issue with professor David E. Meyer’s comment, “The social norm is that you should respond within a couple of hours, if not immediately,” in your article “Smartphone Rises Fast From Gadget to Necessity“

One of the biggest challenges people face when it comes to information overload is the ability to manage work. Those who believe they must respond to email immediately become unable to complete other work. Fifty percent of American workers have their inboxes open constantly, inviting interruptions that cost them several hours every day.

I’d hardly consider expecting immediate responses a social norm. If it is, we are in BIG deep trouble that will only get deeper.

The fact is, most people who send an email generally expect a reply within 24 to 48 hours. If we buy the thought that immediate response is the social norm, work won’t get done. Stop this belief that it IS the norm. It can’t be. If it’s so urgent, pick up the phone!

I do agree that Meyer’s comment that balance is key is spot on. We should control technology – it shouldn’t control us. Off soapbox now.

Thank you,

Marsha Egan, author, Inbox Detox and the Habit of Email Excellence

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