Just to prevent misunderstandings, employers should have written policies setting forth ownership and confidentiality of e-mail passing through their computers. A statement that inappropriate electronic information is forbidden just like verbal or written comments that could reasonably be considered racially or sexually offensive should be included in the policy. Inappropriate is inappropriate regardless of the medium. Additionally, employees should be told that e-mail is the property of the company and is subject to review at any time. Confidential messages should be restricted to home computers.
Verbal communication is far superior to electronics for inspiring and motivating.
The same is true for necessarily critical messages. Reprimands should never be communicated other than in person, or at lease by phone. Ask to be removed from copy lists if the information is not pertinent to your job. The increased productivity arising from the electronic developments of the last decade have played an important role in the booming economy of the 90s. Just like the power of flowing water, it is a force that can be used to make things better or it can be destructive.