You Cant Please Everybody

I received this email on November 8th:

"Take me off your list... you are sending me gimmick email.. you offer free stuff, but you make it so damn complicated to find it... it's a waste time... I looked and looked for the book on seniors and never did find it... go to hell and take you newsletters with you..."

So I checked to see if I could find the "book on seniors", and did. Then I removed him from TIP's mailing list. Then I thought what a great example this is of what not to do, so decided to share it with you.

There'll be times when you feel the way this guy did, and can't wait to vent your wrath with memorable prose, but:

1. Don't send out anything that makes you look like an idiot.

2. If you're really angry about something write it down, but DON'T SEND IT. Let it age for a few days, then re-read it to see if you still feel the same way. I usually don't, and am very happy that I did not sent it in my first flush of rage.

3. If you do decide to send it, ask yourself what emotion it will produce in the recipient, and whether that's what you really want.

4. Decide what you really want your message to achieve.

5. Re-write it focusing on your goal.

6. Check your spelling and grammar.

7. Give it a final read before sending.

8. If you're still in doubt, let it age another day or so.

These few steps will help you avoid alienating other people with what seemed at the time a perfectly reasonable reaction.

They've worked for me!

You Cant Please Everybody - To learn more about this author, visit Donald F. Pooley's Website.

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