Before Breakfast Second Cup: Respond even if you can't answer
4 snips
Apr 25, 2026 Quick tips on using holding replies to acknowledge messages and keep team flow moving. A look at why infrequent email checks backfire in many roles. Examples of simple reply templates to set expectations and avoid extra follow-ups. Guidance on when skipping a reply is acceptable and when a quick note preserves cooperation.
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Reply Even If You Don't Have The Answer
- Respond to emails even when you don't have an answer to show you've received the message.
- Use short holding replies like "I got your request and need to think about it this week" or schedule-specific commitments to stop follow-ups.
Nonresponse Escalates Workload
- Not responding to email often creates downstream inefficiency as people keep pinging, instant-messaging, or scheduling meetings to get attention.
- Laura cites Laura Mae Martin's observation that lack of response escalates small requests into meetings and wasted time.
Responsiveness Signals Team Commitment
- People judge non-responsive colleagues as placing personal preferences above team needs, which harms collaboration.
- Laura references Martin's point that unresponsiveness feels like putting one's desires over team progress.
