Problems with long email threads in teams

The Great Email Epidemic Here's a shocking stat: The average manager spends 20.8 hours per week on email. That's more than 45% of a standard work week just reading and responding to messages. When I first saw this number, I didn't believe it. So I tracked my own email time for a week. The results? Even worse. I was spending nearly 60% of my time in my inbox. That had to change. We started with small tweaks - blocking 'focus hours', turning off notifications, and setting communication guidelines. But the real breakthrough came from an unexpected place: going back to good old face-to-face conversations. We made a rule: if something needs more than two email exchanges, it deserves a conversation. Complex problems that dragged on for days in email threads were suddenly solved in 15-minute chats. Our email traffic dropped by 40%. But more importantly, our decision-making got faster, our relationships stronger, and our work more enjoyable. Sometimes, progress means going back to basics. #ProductivityHacks #LeadershipLessons #WorkplaceCulture

Them: “Hey, I need help solving an issue.” You: “Sure what’s up?” Them: “We’ve been spinning on a client issue for weeks.” You: “Where’s the hang-up?” Them: “We just can’t seem to resolve the issue and the client is pissed.” You: “Any clue on where you think we’re getting stuck?” Them: “Let me send you the email chain.” (sends a 53 email thread that spans over 2 1/2 weeks) You: “Looks like there’s confusion, when was the last call with them?” Them: “Well, right now we’ve been tackling it through email.” You: “Seems like we should get a call scheduled.” Them: “Let me spin up a slack, that may be faster.” You: “I think we need a call.” ----- After call: → Problem clarified → Impact Understood → Plan to solve coordinated → Problem solved in hours/days vs. weeks The above situation is all too common. What may seem like the quickest path → email/slack Is often the complete opposite. Remember this for the next time you’re in a similar situation. Your client and your stress levels will thank you. Call > Threads

Your inbox reveals more than you think. It shows how you lead. Every email habit sends a message. Every response shapes your culture. The key is understanding what your patterns tell your team: 1️⃣ Set Clear Boundaries ↳ Late-night emails create unhealthy expectations. ↳ Consistent patterns show respect for work-life balance. 💡 Apply: - Schedule non-urgent sends for business hours. - Define response time expectations clearly. 2️⃣ Value People's Time ↳ Long emails waste everyone's mental energy. ↳ Clear messages show focused leadership. 💡 Apply: - Keep messages under five sentences. - Put action items at the top. 3️⃣ Model Intentional Response ↳ Instant replies train interruption culture. ↳ Thoughtful timing encourages focused work. 💡 Apply: - Set specific times for email management. - Use auto-responders for focus periods. 4️⃣ Choose Recipients Carefully ↳ Unnecessary CCs create noise and anxiety. ↳ Selective inclusion shows respect and purpose. 💡 Apply: - Include only those who need to act. - State why each person is included. 5️⃣ Pick the Right Channel ↳ Email isn't right for every message. ↳ Smart leaders match medium to message. 💡 Apply: - Save email for non-urgent matters. - Use direct contact for important issues. 6️⃣ Close Communication Loops ↳ Open threads create uncertainty and waste. ↳ Clear closure builds trust and efficiency. 💡 Apply: - End every thread with next steps. - Confirm when actions are complete. 7️⃣ Show Up for Tough Talks ↳ Important messages need personal delivery. ↳ Real conversations build stronger relationships. 💡 Apply: - Schedule face-to-face for significant issues. - Use email to document, not discuss. Great CEOs use email as a tool, not a crutch. They know every message sets an example. "Your inbox isn't just a to-do list. It's a leadership tool that shapes your culture." —Joel Trammell __ What email habit have you changed that made a difference? Share below 👇 ♻️ Please repost to help all leaders with email