Reply to Every Email You Receive, Even If It’s A Year Old!

Back when I lived in Goderich, and prior to Gmail, I had an email account through a shitty ISP named Hurontel. I hadn’t checked the account in about a year and thought it would be funny to see how much Viagara offers I had. Found this email while digging, pay attention to the dates.

———————————————————
From: Becky (Last Name Removed)
Sent: Monday, June 08, 2007 11:39 AM
To: John Young
Subject: employment
HI John,
I was recently reviewing some resumes and came across yours that was sent to us back in April 2006.  We currently have  a Network Support Technician vacancy and was inquiring if you would like to learn more about it.
Regards,
Becky
Human Resources Manager
Removed Inc.
Phone: Removed Fax:Removed
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I could not believe it, and it had been a year since she had sent it. I remembered this job when I had originally sent out 10 resumes (one of which landed me my current job). Rather then deleting/dismissing it, I replied with this:
——————————————————— From: John Young [mailto:jvyoung@gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, June 02, 2008 11:18 AM
To: Becky
Subject: Re: employment

Hi Becky,
I haven’t checked this email account in about a year, and sure enough you sent that email about a year ago… I can’t help but laugh and feel a little embarrassed… but I always make a point to reply.
I’m happily employed working in London right now and have been for the past two years. I sincerely appreciate the follow up. Hopefully you found the perfect candidate.
Again please forgive the lateness of my reply. This will know doubt be the most awkward email you receive all day.
John
———————————————————

It didn’t take long for her to reply… 6 minutes actually, and here’s what I got back:

———————————————————
From: Becky
Date: Mon, Jun 2, 2008 at 11:24 AM
Subject: RE: employment
To: John Young
Hi John,
Thanks for the reply and the  good email etiquette.  I appreciate the response and the update on your status, late and all!
Please note that if you ever choose to relocate to Kincardine, keep [Company Name] Inc. in mind and send us your resume.
Your reply has put a smile on my face.
Regards,
Becky[Last name removed]HR Manager
[Company Name Removed] Inc.
———————————————————

Her reply put a smile on my face to.
Always reply to every email you receive, even if it’s a year old like it was with my case. With MSN mesenger, twitter, and TXT messages the world is moving so fast. Don’t ever forget, or underestimate the importance of good email etiquette.
Email me sometime: jvyoung@gmail.com.
I promise I will reply!!