One of the problems with the nearly instantaneous communication vehicle we
call e-mail is that
it isn't a very rich medium. All the subtlety of inflection and body
language are absent.
Vocabularies vary greatly, as do inferences, across individuals, cultures,
and organizations.
Thick skins, therefore, are an obvious asset in this realm, as is, for that
matter, a
presumption of innocent intent. The odds are I've offended someone here,
but I assure you that
isn't my goal.
Oh, please don't tell Poe, or Michner ... Ludlum, Christie .... Joyce,
Austin ... or .....
that the written word is "thin" communication. While the strength is
different than verbal
communication it is "mightier than the sword"
May we all use our swords here wisely ... and parry carefully.
(sorry, I also play in the OCIS arena and detest the practice of
researching non-communicator types as a source of determining if email is
"thin").