Captain's Log 20121212 - When should I put my boss on copy?

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:

• 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!

Captain's Log #3403 - Surfing

If your ambition is to surf on the highest wave off the coast of Hawaii - the decision takes seconds - the implementation ages (as is so often the case).

Here comes the beef. You got to take lessons. You have to get a board. A big one first, for beginners, a smaller one later, as you get better. You gotta get a wet suit (well, at least if you live in England). You got to practice and practice and practice some more.

Then, when you are an accomplished surfer, get your ticket to Hawaii - do your research, find that important beach where the giant waves occur.

Go to the beach. And if you are unlucky the big ones won't appear, but if you are lucky they will and you will fulfil your ambition.

However, of course, if you haven't done any of the other things (get a board, practice, wet suit etc) there is no point turning up at the beach.

And that my friend is my philosophy on working life.

Cheerio from Buenos Aires

(no pictures though, got my camera nicked)

Captain's Log #3395 - On new year's resolutions

Don't make them. How does it go? "The way to hell is paved with good intentions!"

Instead, use the time to reflect a little. Do you still live the dream? Are you still true to your values? What is your say / do ratio?

Maybe a small adjustment here and there will do the trick and sometimes we all need to look further than our daily inbox.

Happy New Year M.