I will soon start a new job where I expect to receive significantly more emails than I do currently. So far, I haven’t had a system in place, except for marking emails as unread until I respond and occasionally using flags.

I would like to change that practice, now that I have a clean slate. But how do I start managing my inbox?

I use Mac Mail and would like to continue using it. I know how to set up rules and create smart mailboxes etc., but I can’t really see the potential.

Thank you!

  • Zelda_pinwheel1971@lemmy.world
    1·
    1 year ago

    I use outlook at work but again it’s more about the process.

    My inbox is my “to do” list. I have lots of folders and subfolders and I file everything. Once a day I try to take a few minutes to file stuff that’s been dealt with.

    I do also file some "sent"mail too as I’m kinda CYA cautious like that.

    I get a bit stressed if my inbox gets to the point where I have to scroll down through it - that tells me I need to delegate, file or close out some items.

    Some people never file anything and just use the search function in whatever email client they’re in, but I’m a bit old and never had that function in the early days so it doesn’t come naturally to me - an inbox with 20,000 messages in it just freaks me out.

    I also use the conversation function which keeps everything tied together regardless of which folder it’s in.

    Trial and error. You don’t have to stick to a routine or method - if it’s not working for you, change something until it does.