Over the past few years, I’ve noticed more people in higher education adding statements to their email signatures about work hours and response times to messages.
All of them communicate healthy email boundaries at work.
As we move into summer, when many people in post-secondary take vacation time or shift to a different work pace, I thought I’d share a few favourites I’ve collected (with identities removed).
Examples of email signatures
What I like about these messages is that they clearly state expectations and support wellness.
Example 1
Please note: While I may be sending this email outside working hours, I have NO expectation to receive a reply outside yours.
Here’s how this might look in practice:
[my message here]
Kind regards,
Isabeau
Isabeau Iqbal, PhD (she/her)
Professional Certified Coach (ICF) * Mentor Coach * Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach *
isabeauiqbal.com
Please note: While I may be sending this email outside working hours, I have NO expectation to receive a reply outside yours.
Example 2
I do not expect replies to emails that I send on weekends or evenings, or during other’s vacations and downtime.
Example 3
I have likely sent this email at a time when it was feasible for me to do so; I of course assume that others may have a different schedule and will respond when it is feasible for them. In particular, please note that even if I send an email on weekends or evenings, I certainly don’t expect a response on weekends or evenings.
Example 4
Thanks for connecting.
Currently, my head is down in meetings, with assigned tasks, or potentially off-line.
Scheduled Email Check-Ins:
Monday to Friday: 7am, 11am, and 4pm
Saturdays, Sunday and Holidays: Off-line
If you are connecting to discuss [Department] courses or course work, (i.e., teaching-learning challenges with LMS, proctoring, learning activities, or online exams), sending your email to [email removed] will result in a quicker response.
If you don’t have a reply from me within two-business days, a reminder of your request would be appreciated.
Warm Regards,
Example 5
Note: I may engage with my work outside of regular work hours. Please do not let the time-stamp on my email prompt you to respond until you are within your regular work hours.
[name, department, university]
PS – You are a whole person and my email is not the only thing in your life. Just because I sent this email, doesn’t mean you need to respond immediately.
_______________________________________________
These examples remind us that clear communication about email expectations and work-life boundaries can support a healthier approach to work in higher education (for you and your recipients).
Over to you
Do you currently have anything like this for your permanent signature at work? If so, are there any tweaks you want to make inspired by the examples above?
If you don’t yet have one, but love this idea, what will your ‘I’m for more healthy boundaries in my higher education work’ signature be?
