In short - if you think about it - never!
Well almost never.
Let's think about the possible reasons to cc your boss on an email:
Well almost never.
Let's think about the possible reasons to cc your boss on an email:
- You want to let the boss know that you are on the ball for reassurance
- You want to show off - see how clever I am!
- You think that somehow putting the boss on cc gives your message more authority
- You are generally in the habit to cc as many people as possible in the hope that someone will pick up the thread and do something
- The boss has asked you to
The only valid reason, me thinks, is the last one. If you have a good working relationship with your boss then he/she will know that you are on the ball, will know how smart you are.
And be honest - have you ever been impressed with someone else's boss on copy of an email you received? Ok, so it might spur you into action a little quicker, but do you feel the little bit of resentment building up?
80% of emails I receive have me on copy. Less than 15% of emails make it clear to me what I should do. Even less is the percentage of emails which make it possible to know from the subject line what is required.
Also consider this: your boss gets an email about some problem you face with your colleagues and team mates? How does this reflect on you? I think it gives the impression that you are not capable of solving the problem. The oss will get involved and another fire drill is on its way.
So in summation - in the ever growing avalanche of emails which we create in this age of social networking and messaging - keep you business emails sharp.
Use the right channel, use the correct distribution list, and don't escalate from step 1 by copying your boss (after all, where do you go after that?).
Try to solve the problem / issue by yourself first. If you have to involve your boss write separately outlining the action steps you have taken and why you got stuck.
Happy emailing!
