Being mindful with email: respecting colleagues' time and attention
Email remains an important tool for sharing information with teams and colleagues across the Saskatchewan Health Authority, but each message we send adds to the volume of information our colleagues receive every day.
One simple way we can support one another is by being thoughtful about who needs to receive a message and who needs to receive a response. Before selecting "Reply All," take a moment to consider whether your response is relevant to everyone included on the original email. In many cases, replying only to the sender is the most appropriate option.
A few helpful reminders:
- Use Reply All only when the information, question, or response is relevant to all recipients.
- Consider whether everyone copied on an email needs to be included in your response.
- Keep messages clear, concise, and focused on the information required.
- When sending messages to large groups, be mindful of the impact unnecessary replies can have on inbox volume and workflow.
These small actions help reduce unnecessary email traffic and support a more efficient workplace. Most importantly, they show respect for colleagues' time and attention, allowing teams to focus on the work that matters most: supporting patients, residents, clients, families, and one another.
Thank you for helping create a more thoughtful and effective communication environment across our organization.