How to proceed when a manager doesn't answer emails but reads them?

Question

How would you deal with a operations manager who does not reply to emails which call for a specific actions. He was heard saying "if they need me they know where to find me".

Answer 1

How would you deal with a operations manager who does not reply to emails which call for a specific actions.

Two scenarios:

• If you share the same work slot/ shift

  • You can go and talk to them (face to face) for any urgent action item, after sending the email, if you both are co-located.

  • If the manager is not within the physical reach (not in same wing, same building etc.), you can try reaching them over IM / phone calls.

• If you do not share the same work shift

  Stick to emails, if things are not responded to when they are needed, after a gentle reminder, copy your manager (if the person is not already your manager) and/or their manager to the email.

That said, if this is something that you need done on a very regular basis, I'd suggest, instead of trying to have ad-hoc conversations, if possible, have a brief recurring meeting set up, where you can go over the list of items which needs the inputs / actions from their side and collect the responses.

Whatever you do, do not forget to send emails - they are the documentary proof of the requirement. Send the email and then follow up using any means possible / necessary.