Technology is constantly changing. You must stay knowledgeable about current computer software so that you can take advantage of the powerful tools available. However, keeping up-to-date with technology is not enough to be a successful writer. You must use the rules of grammar, spelling, and punctuation as well as apply the basic principles for communicating. To be effective, you need to think more about the content and less about the tools—you need to develop an effective message, not just use a tool.

When you use e-mail, remember that although the method of sending the message has changed, the message has not. Regardless of what communication tool you use, you must still convey your message concisely, clearly, and completely. When using e-mails, follow these guidelines:

• Determine if e-mail is the appropriate medium for your message.
• Treat e-mail messages as seriously as all other business correspondence you send.
• Remember that e-mail is considered flat—it cannot express mood, tone of voice, or body language.
• Don't say anything in an e-mail you wouldn't say in a memo, on voice mail, or in person.
• Remember that e-mail is not confidential.
• Remember that e-mail changes how the message gets there but not how the message is received.
• Know and respect your organization's in-house e-mail policy.

As e-mail continues to grow in popularity and importance as a means of sending and receiving communication, it is vitally important that you use this tool effectively. However, to be truly effective, you will need to always use the six Cs of effective communication in your writing.