Monday, 2 May 2016

communication - Why do academics frequently write very short email replies?


Why do many academics write short replies to emails?


For example, I write Professor MK some polite email with salutation, etc., just polite and decent email. MK then responds like this:



OK, MK



Is MK so busy that they have no time to write, for example, this:



Hello,



It is fine. This is the correct approach.


Best regards,
MK



I do not understand this.



Answer



Is hello acceptable, or should it be more formal (with or without academic titles)? This is a matter of (sub-)culture. Once you know what to expect, you can effectively communicate. This style is minimalist, but it tells you everything you need to know.


If this bothers you, think of it this way: MK is not only saving their time, but they are also saving your time. By using this style it minimizes the time you have to spent reading their message.


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