Stop Forwarding Political Emails!

I am frequently contacted about unwanted forwarded emails. This week, I received three requests on the subject—all noting wanting to stop political forwards. That’s where we are—afraid to ask someone to stop sending you emails you don’t want because… hurt feelings.

Everyone knows a nice way—saying “please,” “thank you,” and “appreciate your understanding” will always work. But they know the recipient may be mad or hurt no matter how “nice” they are. Being hurt or angry over being asked to stop forwarding emails says more about them than you.

Then, this situation is amplified by all the political commentary being forwarded around as if it will change minds or make a point. It won’t. It doesn’t.

It’s All About Being Nice

Those emailing for advice instinctively know that making that request may upset someone, so they prefer to try to avoid that. They want to be nice.

And many times, that is precisely what happens. Habitual forwarders tend to think they are being thoughtful when, in fact, they are just virtue signaling.

This is importrant; I’m thinking of you! Aren’t I nice?

Yeah, they are thinking of you, and I guess that’s nice. Are we to be grateful because someone clicked a few buttons? In addition to that, when it comes to political emails and memes, folks tend to be more sensitive in their reactions.

Many forwards aren’t all that unique—some are even hoaxes. But it would help if they were forwarded correctly, with a nice comment about why they forwarded that specific email to you.

By sending a note with the forward, you aren’t just mass-forwarding already-seen emails. You are adding your personal touch.

Most folks will not get frustrated with forwards when this extra step is taken, probably because by having to take this additional step, irresponsible forwarders wouldn’t forward as much.

So there’s the conundrum: Do you upset someone or just keep hitting delete? Because those are your choices.

For me, I just keep hitting delete.

Let Me Be the Bad Guy

No matter how kind, gentle, and careful you choose your words when making such a request, some will get hurt. They may even react viscerally because they think you are telling them what to do, especially on sensitive topics they think you need to know about.

So, I’ve got an article you can send the forwarders in your life to. Let me be the “bad guy. ” As the author, I’m the one giving forwarders some information to consider—not you. How do I ask someone to stop forwarding me all those silly emails?

You can also use the Get the Word Out links at the bottom of every page to message the out-of-control forwarders you know or to post to your socials.