Email Etiquette tip: Beware the use of the BCC

Your use of the BCC option could be interpreted as backstabbing, end runs, or mistrust. Consider this e-mail blind copied to "the boss":

From: Howdy
Sent: January 19, 2:41 PM
To: Doodie
BCC: Boss Bob
Subject: 4th Quarter Training Report

Good morning, Doodie;
When do you plan to submit your 4th Quarter Training Report?

It was due the 15th, and this is now my third follow-up. I’ve received the reports from all other managers, and will appreciate your getting the information to me ASAP.

Thanks.
Howdy

Before you use this feature, think about the reasons you are really considering doing so, and determine whether the use is truly necessary. Consider also how its use might make you look to other recipients. In the above example, it is plain to the BCC recipient that Howdy is “tattling” to Boss Bob. Very disrespectful. Very poor etiquette.