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A Question of Timing

Today I sent out my monthly e-newsletter to 3426 people. As is typical on a Friday afternoon, I received many automatic out-of-office email replies. This is my favorite, from a man named Dave:

I am currently out of the office. I will return to the office on Thursday, August 2, 2007. I will only be checking emails late in the evening until my return.

But did he ever return? (Some of you will remember the rousing lyrics of "MTA," a song made famous by the Kingston Trio.) His fate is still unlearned.

In any case, Dave’s timing gave me a laugh.

As for my timing, I will be away all of next week, in Florida for my mother’s funeral. I will respond to comments when I return.

Lynn

P.S. This month’s featured ezine article is "Meeting Notes Made Easy." Subscribe.

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By Lynn Gaertner-Johnston

Lynn Gaertner-Johnston has helped thousands of employees and managers improve their business writing skills and confidence through her company, Syntax Training. In her corporate training career of more than 20 years, she has worked with executives, engineers, scientists, sales staff, and many other professionals, helping them get their messages across with clarity and tact.

A gifted teacher, Lynn has led writing classes at more than 100 companies and organizations such as MasterCard, Microsoft, Boeing, Nintendo, REI, AARP, Ledcor, and Kaiser Permanente. Near her home in Seattle, Washington, she has taught managerial communications in the MBA programs of the University of Washington and UW Bothell. She has created a communications course, Business Writing That Builds Relationships, and provides the curriculum at no cost to college instructors.

A recognized expert in business writing etiquette, Lynn has been quoted in "The Wall Street Journal," "The Atlantic," "Vanity Fair," and other media.

Lynn sharpened her business writing skills at the University of Notre Dame, where she earned a master's degree in communication, and at Bradley University, with a bachelor's degree in English.

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