E-mail signature etiquette

While most e-mail applications allow you to embellish your signature with pictures, hyperlinks and font variations, there is etiquette that should be considered, especially if you are using your e-mail signature for professional purposes.

• All of the lines in the e-mail signature should be aligned to the left of the signature box.
• The e-mail signature should include sufficient contact information, which will vary depending on the contact information you want e-mail recipients to have.
• A business motto is also appropriate.
• Keep the e-mail signature simple and easy to read. Four to six lines of text is a good rule of thumb.
• Have at least two e-mail signatures from which to choose.
• You do not need to include your e-mail address in the e-mail signature.
• Stick with basic, legible fonts.
• If you use an image or a graphic, remember that less is more.
• Do not use a jumble of different fonts, size or colours.
• Add a few blank lines at the top of your e-mail signature to keep it from being too close to the body of the message. After you have created an e-mail signature, proof it carefully for spelling and punctuation errors before putting it to use.