In the fast-paced world of trying to achieve work-life balance, prioritising wellbeing and setting boundaries, all while maintaining consistent ways of working, email is a common topic of discussion. One approach that often emerges is the idea of schedule send, where emails are sent during specific hours, typically between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
On the surface, this might seem like a useful and considerate move, supporting the wellbeing of staff. However, with this approach, are we supporting staff to work with autonomy and flexibility? Upon closer examination, it becomes evident that schedule send may not fully endorse the freedom to work flexibly, sending and responding to emails when it suits individuals best – be it early in the morning or late at night, accommodating their personal lives.
Schedule send might prevent emails from being sent or received at certain times, but this may not align with everyone's natural rhythm and workstyle. The underlying issue with schedule send is not the sending of emails, but the receivers' inability to effectively manage their inbox and set the necessary boundaries around email access. Implementing a schedule send policy does not replace the need for each individual to manage their inbox proactively and set their own email response boundaries.
More About Amy
Amy is founder of The Wellness Strategy, a published author, speaker, facilitator, and coach, and a leader in improving workplace culture and wellbeing in schools and organisations. As a past teacher and school leader, Amy is determined to change the way we view wellbeing to support our everyday and workplace needs. With a background in teaching and leadership and having studied human behaviour and positive psychology, Amy brings to the wellbeing space a fresh approach to what can be a sensitive topic. Amy guides workplaces to understand the difference between individual and collective wellbeing to ensure all employees feel safe, valued, and fulfilled, and to bring about a workplace culture in which all staff thrive and flourish.
Email: hello@amygreen.com.au
