H: Overheard – ‘Arlow! Have you read my email ? Can you read and reply me?’ Why not just ask answer if already on the phone?
S: Sometimes, workplace folks prefer documentation of communication, even if by email, for backup, in case there is miscommunication or going back on one’s words. The sad truth is, even with documentation, the two problems can still happen. Maybe you can try replying directly by phone or when you walk by. I’m sure the person can’t insist that the reply doesn’t count. But here’s the tricky bit – you might need someone to witness that you did reply!
H: *Faint*
S: Better get email documentation from the witness, affirming the witnessing, in case the person goes back his or her word! *Double faint!*
H: Haha… No wonder so busy!
S: So the moral of the story is… to save time and more trouble, it might be simpler to just give the person the wanted emaill reply! To save even more time, give very short and sharp replies. Eg. ‘Ok!’ Haha!