Forwarded emails are those strange FWD: creatures you see in the subject line of your emails. They may contain cards, stories, slide shows, appeals, music and/or photos. They could also be slated as our modern day equivalent to those old chain letters you used to receive via snail-mail.
For some of your online pals, hitting FWD gives them power they do not have in real life. For others, that’s just what they do. While others give it no thought at all or think it is impolite not to respond and send on emails. Others want to show you how many people they know. This link demonstrates the proper how and why:
http://email.about.com/od/howtoforwardemails/How_to_Forward_Emails.htm
Awhile ago I tried to help some of my elderly clients settle their email frustrations.
They asked what they should forward. And, while it was just my opinion, I advised them to only send a select few. There is nothing wrong with hitting the delete key, in my opinion, if you get unwanted emails. They were also offended by the mixed content of many of these emails. I urge you to give yourself the permission to check that delete box and get them out of your inbox and your head!
Practice considerate computing and do not flood your cyber pals’ inbox with a massive amount of videos/photos, or emails. Remember, they might have a different Internet connection than you do and it will bog down their computer.
Check out this site for a fun, comprehensive look at inbox woes:
On the plus side, you could argue that forwards allow you to say things you could never really bring yourself to say in real life. I have had this experience with the more heart-felt, friendship, prayers and poetic styles of emails. These emails have given me as well as others a chance to express ourselves without having to utter a word. And, let’s face it, most forwards are cute with animation and express thoughts better than we can!
Other computer users have said they wish their friends would just write a personal hello as they have never received one. I recommended they drop them an email first to see if they reply. Keep in mind that we computer users are all at different levels.
Some users do not type well, some may only know how to forward, some despise writing - not everyone is a writer, and some would rather call you. It’s safe to assume they all mean well and want you to know they thought of you that particular day.
A computer client & I laughed about the time he forwarded an email, didn’t read it through and it send recipients a love message. Shock! They were getting replies from people they hardly knew saying “I love you, too”. This was funny, but just be careful. The item you forward may not be so harmless!
So when should you forward?
e-cards are acceptable, just don’t overdo them.
Your calendar, information about a meeting, group, etc is perfectly acceptable and at the office you may be required to do this.
Ask for prayers or assistance; notify others of a change in your life.
To announce an engagement, wedding, new baby/baptism, ceremonies, graduations, military, websites, parties, meetings, celebrations, blogs or a business. Even point others to your photos online.
http://www.evite.com
When receiving an email address from anyone, inquire if they read forwards or wish to receive them. Take note of the ones who do not. If recipients do not like you to write frequently or more than a paragraph at a time, per say, respect their wishes and “delete.”
