Let’s Talk about Holiday Email Attachments
This time of year gets crazy with attachments. Hosts send large PDF invitations to their guests, families send update letters, and excited friends share their holiday photo activities as they occur.
Email often becomes an alternative because people don’t want to take the time to hand address classy invites and cards or print photos. I get that; however, while convenient, PDF invites, photos, and family update letters sent via email cannot replace receiving a hand-addressed unique invite or card via snail mail. Sending that hard copy is so much more thoughtful and fun, don’t you think?
Technology is incredible when appropriately used, as I say, “with knowledge, understanding, and courtesy.” I repeat that a lot around here. Unfortunately, technology often becomes a crutch without thought or courtesy to the other side and to cater to what we are unwilling to do otherwise.
Is that what you do?
When it comes to attachments, many just “attach” because that is what they want to do or what is convenient at that given moment. Easy-peasy. However, it is not very thoughtful when considering you don’t know the storage or bandwidth limits of the recipient.
Remember that not everyone has unlimited resources to handle the many attachments you can send simultaneously because that is convenient for you. We cannot count on the other side sitting at their computer to download them immediately to keep their inbox flowing. This is why asking first when would be the best time to send multiple photos or huge attachments is a courteous gesture to offer.
Email is not for huge attachments.
Your camera creates images mega-megs in size. All you have to do is take a moment and decrease each image to no larger than 1000 pixels in width before sending it. Then, if you want to send a bunch of files, zip them up.
By being aware of these little issues, you will show an understanding of the technology you are participating in (tech savvy) and that you have consideration for those you communicate with. Plus, you won’t have to worry about inconveniencing the recipient with limited storage, bandwidth, or service.
Why not brush up on attachment dos and don’ts with my article “Don’t Attach That!” while you are at it?
