Cubicle-Fu

Sorting through email is a nice excuse to skip a meeting, sure, “Give me a few minutes, I need to sort through my email.” However, when you’re trying to actually get things done, reading and writing inbox novellas all day is a waste of time.

Sending and receiving emails that communicate well requires basic Cubicle fu. the folks at 43folders put up this great cheat sheet that will have you wielding your email like a katana blade.

http://www.43folders.com/2005/09/19/writing-sensible-email-messages

My favorite piece from the article:

“I’d wager that there’s one visual trick most likely to improve your message’s success: fit it onto one screen with no scrolling. There’s a reason those web ads placed “above the fold” cost a lot more than the ones stuck down at the bottom; it’s the only part of the page that you’re virtually assured that anyone will see. “

Recently a coworker snapped at me when I asked her if she needed help. “What a bitch” was my first thought, followed swiftly by, “Man, she is always such a bitch.” And truthfully, she can be, but she’s also sensitive, and even if she wasn’t, the question “Why are you such a bitch” is a tough opening line if you’re looking for resolution. Like the wildebeast, many coworkers are sharp and biting, and also sensitive to any perceived personal attack. Approaching requires the finesse of a Cubicle Fu master taming dragons.

When approaching the dragon-like coworker:

1. Walk softly, with confidence (if you act confident and kind, and perhaps ignorant of the danger of a blow up from them, then they might still blow up, but it will be smaller because you didn’t JUST disturb their natural habitat)
2. Ask them what is going on for them (chances are they snapped for a reason, and they’re probably used to a snap back. so this approach is both a welcome surprise, and you might find out what their issue is and help solve it)
3. Listen, Don’t patronize (they’ll likely sense that and blow up more. when you’re listening, really listen, and let go of your own agenda. if you spend the whole time they’re talking by planning what you’re going to say, well, good luck with that)
4. Let them talk (any good lawyer will tell you to let a cross-examine ramble before you reveal your cards, it gives you time to adjust your case to win. similarly, you can find out what the issue is by letting them state it, listen for how to resolve it, then get in there and make a suggestion that addresses their specific concern.)
5. Address their concern (chances are they won’t hear you till they feel heard. period. so help them, to help you.)
6. After you’ve helped them address their issue, state yours as already solved (”Cool. I’m really glad we figured out what was going on. Truthfully, I felt a little burned when you responded the way you did, and now I’m glad we know how to keep us both happy.” a little couching there, and if they don’t get it, then you have a larger issue on your hands)