Posted on June 30th, 2010Image Source 1
Email signature is a block of text automatically attached at the bottom of an e-mail message. E-mail signature often contains the sender’s name, address, phone number, disclaimer or other contact information. Most e-mail servers can be configured to append e-mail signatures to all outgoing mails. There is no specific restriction on email signature block, but usually we follow a guideline called McQuary limit. This restricts the email signature to a size of not more than four lines of less than eighty columns each. Some tips for an attractive email signature are
1. Must have an email signature
You may question the need of a digital signature. On many occasions the person whom you may contact may not have any means to get back to you other than given email. It is not required in case you are a celebrity else it is a must that you should attach email signature.
2. Short and sweet
Keep the signature short never include any displeasing details. Resist the urge to add your full address, home, work and cell phone numbers. Include information that is essential to just keep in touch with you. Avoid including multiple phone numbers. Pick your contact preference and get rid of the rest. Condense information into fewer lines by using pipes (|) or colons (::) to separate the text.
3. Never place email address in signature
Placing email in the Signature block exposes that you are an amateur. Why should you include Email address when your recipient gets mail from the same mail address?
4. Social Network links
Including social network links provides an opportunity for you to build up your connections and followers. Include IM details and Skype account information if that is how you wish to be contacted.
5. Aviod colors
Simple plain text is sufficient and probably the best. Skip the use of colors, special fonts and graphics.
6. Take care with HTML format
If using HTML format, make sure that you test your signature with as many email clients as you can. HTML formatting must be put to use with utmost care because it may not appear as you wish it to be.
7. Email signature service
Use an email signature service if you have specific formatting needs or wish to include graphics and other design elements.Check out the following:
8. Auto-attaching a vcard
You can attach your vcard which is a file format standard for electronic business cards. This can be done using email applications like the Microsoft Outlook so that the vcard gets attached to every mail that you send.
9. Avoid Quotes
While you might think your quote is pithy or wise or funny, it might offend someone or just be confusing.
10. Legal disclaimer
Avoid including a legal disclaimer unless it is required to do so.