Integrating E-mail with Other Forms of Communication

Getting Started

E-mail is a powerful medium in its own right, but it can also be used to enhance other forms of communication. Sometimes, e-mail may not be the most effective approach, so you need to consider whether a telephone call or a conventional letter might be more appropriate.

A telephone call may be more appropriate, for example, if you need to have a two-way discussion with someone. But you can use e-mail to exchange background information and summarize the outcome of your discussion. Write a letter if you wish to include confidential information or if you’re covering a formal topic and you want to ensure that the recipient has a printed copy of the information you’re sending.

FAQs

What is the role for e-mail on my company’s Web site?

An important one. Including e-mail facilities within the site makes it easier for site visitors to contact you or request additional information. Make sure that you always include an e-mail address at the end of your company advertising. When customers contact you, you can capture their details and open up a sales process.

If you send direct mail to customers, you can use e-mail to follow-up the mailing and improve the effectiveness of the campaign. For example, your company may use telemarketing to contact customers or sales prospects initially and then follow up with e-mail.