What’s the Big Deal If…
I don’t use the standardized signature block?

PDF Version (PDF, 361 KB)

Why it is a big deal

The recipient could very likely delete your e-mail, thinking it is spam or report it as a phishing attack
TBS requires that you use a standardized signature block for identification and to reduce questions about credibility of the e-mail
A new email system is coming to the Department that will standardize all email addresses. Your signature block will be the only way for someone to identify what department you work for

Scenario

You’ve been told that your e-mails are being deleted and not read because it’s not clear who they are from. What should you do?

Possible actions (Vote on the correct answer)

Option 1: Use the standardized signature block as outlined by TBS
Option 2: Create your own customized signature block which includes a thought-of-the-day
Option 3: Sign the e-mail with “Cheers” and your name

Explanation

Option 1 is the correct option
You must follow the official signature block from TBS to ensure your e-mails are properly identified and not mistaken for phishing
The TBS Standard for e-mail signatures includes (in bilingual format, always):
Name
Title, Branch
Department / Government of Canada
E-mail / Telephone / Teletypewriter

Key take-aways

To avoid confusion, use a standardized signature block on all your e-mails

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