Sara Schaefer

So you've just downloaded 5,000 animated smiley emoticons to your
computer and they are ready to use with your Smiley Toolbar straight
into all your e-mails!

I know, I can feel the excitement too. But don't go crazy. Try to be
selective with your usage of the emoticons, and be absolutely sure that
they are used in the most professional, and message-appropriate manner.

For example:

Nancy,

I'm nearly finished with the report. I should have it on your desk
tomorrow first thing.

-Sara

Subtle, but powerful nonetheless.

Or how about this? Emoticons can also add that extra touch of class
needed for that important email to a superior.

Nancy,

I've identified an issue with the Jonesville client. I believe their trading warrants further analysis. I'd be happy to take on this project if you like - unless you have something more pressing for me to tackle.

- Sara

Don't forget you can use your emoticons when addressing one of your subordinates (i.e., that temp 2 cubicles down).

Fred,

Please stop looking at me.

-Sara

Or how about this - when you've got to own up to the boss about a mistake you've made?

Nancy,

I discovered an error in the Jenkins analysis. It hasn't been sent out to the client yet, has it? If so, I apologize for the confusion - hopefully we can just send a new one and tell them there was a typo.

-Sara

[What I really love about the steering wheel-->explosion emoticon is that "I've just driven off a cliff - and finally, I'll be free from this cruel, cruel world" smile that washes over the little guy, just before he burns up in a firey ball of death. Leave it to an animated emoticon to really capture the most complex human emotions possible!]