If you use an instant messaging tool on a regular basis there is a very good chance that you will need to use an away message from time to time. When composing your away message you should follow these tips:
1. Don’t show your anger. Believe it or not, many people make the mistake of using an away message such as “Don’t bother me, I am busy.” While this may sound like a good idea when posting it, soon enough you will find that you offended many people. It would be in your best interest to keep your away messages free of anger, and as friendly and helpful as possible.
2. Say what you are doing in your away message. This can be anything from “I am on a conference call” to “I am out to lunch” among many others. Of course, you don’t want to give away too much information if you are trying to keep something private.
3. Offer information on when you will return to your computer, and when you will return messages. This may be the most important part of composing a quality away message. People who see that you are not around will want to know when you will return.
Even though this may sound like a lot of information to include, you don’t have to write a story. Instead, a one to two sentence away message will do the job just fine.