Hi all,

If I have a question, should I email my supervisor immediately (I work away from office), or should I wait till the supervision to ask her (which is next week)? I feel like if I was in the office, and she was there, I would have asked her, and not waited. Does that mean it is OK if I email her, or are rules different for email?

Thanks

Chococake

Depends on relationship you have really. If she's the type you could have knocked on the door and asked a question easily, then email. If she's the type who hates being bothered other than in supervisions, perhaps wait.

One question is not going to hurt but what might happen is that her answer may well trigger another question and on and on it goes. I would 'til next week's meeting and ask her the question then. After that 'casually' ask her if it is okay if you email her from time to time with questions. If you are not going to have regular meetings, would she be okay if you emailed her once a week with questions. Gauge her reaction. Does she reply to emails normally, have you heard grumbling about her inbox being clogged up, is she known to be approachable via email, by the time she replies will you have met with her anyhow???

A

I think it also depends on the nature of the question. If it is something which isn't a big deal and I can get on with things and wait then I'd do that. If its something important which is going to stop me getting on with things then I'd email.

Or just do as I do, think "what's the worst than can happen" and just send it without thinking about it all too much :-)

You could send an email saying you have this particular question, and ask whether she would prefer to sort it in email or handle it face to face when you have your next meeting! Then, if she does want the face to face option, she is aware in advance of the meeting that you have this question and she might be more prepared to deal with it.

I don't think you should be afraid of sending emails to supervisors. Maybe if you were sending one a hour, every day....but sounds to me like your email would be very reasonable and very appropriate to send. As well, your supervisory relationship is a two way street--its not only what the supervisor might prefer, its what you need and want as a student!

I agree with Dan--just send it and then don't worry. I know it can seem like a big deal to have to send the email, and getting the tone and wording just right---but just confidently send a professional and friendly email and then don't worry! The worst case might be the supervisor is dreadful at reading emails and doesn't even see it before your next meeting!

she shouldn't really mind, it is just a different way of communicating, and one used all the time, especially if you are part time or working away from the uni. Also remember you are paying her time - either personally or via funding so don't feel that you can't ask her a question!:-)

======= Date Modified 10 Feb 2011 20:20:37 =======
Thanks Joyce and Olivia, and all the rest of you! It has helped me a lot :)