I had a recent in-person conversation with someone I thought was cool. That was until that person told me she hated when people peppered their e-mails with exclamation points. I immediately did the wrong thing. I decided, I don’t think this person is that cool anymore. Why? Because I’m an exclamation pointer, of course!
What? Really? Did I just form an opinion of someone because of her attitude toward electronic communication? Ridiculous and common.
- Maybe you dislike the person who never shows emotion in their e-mail. Their message sounds dry, cold or demanding. Maybe you’re the opposite (like my uncool acquaintance above) and can’t stand it when people use the exclamation point.
- The same goes for the smiley face. Maybe you think it helps signify that you’re kidding, friendly or providing service with a smile. Others, though, may see it as unprofessional. They automatically don’t take you seriously and won’t be able to anymore.
- All caps – why are you yelling at me? No caps – lazy much?
- Nice in person but an a-hole online? An a-hole in person but suddenly get a sense of humor in every e-mail you send?
Have your own e-mail annoyance?
Are You Zhazha? 
Way too funny! Oops. I do it too! I am a vocal person and have no trouble communicating, either in person or electronically. I know that most people are not that way though. Its easier to communicate electronically than in person. So, if you are a dud in an email and can’t express yourself we shouldn’t be talking.
Thanks for sharing.
The all caps thing – it makes me crazy.
Also, a typo or misspelling or two is fine, but I’ve gotten some emails that are almost unreadable. TURN THE CAPS LOCK OFF AND THE SPELL CHECK ON!
Agree! All caps makes me scared.
I’m with you. My widdle feewings get hurt when people are curt in emails. Be nice, people. I’m FRIENDLY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!