We get it — your inbox is full. Between client emails, newsletters, and all the “urgent” pings of digital life, it can feel like just one more message might tip you over the edge. At OLI, we do our best to keep communication purposeful and respectful. We never want to overwhelm you or make you dread receiving yet another email from us.
Still, with newsletters, workshop announcements, and community posts from our free Elevate training programme for volunteers, you may notice quite a few emails coming your way. Here’s how to stay connected without getting buried:
1. Build an “OLI Check-In” Habit
Create a recurring 5-minute slot once or twice a week (Tuesdays and Fridays are great!) to scan the OLI newsletter and Elevate updates. You’ll stay in the loop without feeling interrupted.
2. Filter for Focus
Set up a folder or label for “OLI / Elevate” in your email system. You can direct non-urgent updates there automatically and check them when you’re ready, on your terms. If you use Gmail, here’s a link to a video Sherif Abuzid has made to show you how it’s done: https://elevate.olangi.org/community/course/translators-took-kit/lessons/managing-labels-and-filters/view
There is one exception, however:
Both translation and review opportunities are time-sensitive and competitive. You often need to respond within a few hours, or at least on the same day, to get an opportunity. Your prompt replies help us to meet deadlines and support urgent projects.
That being said, we recommend setting up a filter for emails from volunteers@olangi.org. The best time to check for these emails is between 15:30 and 17:30 CET, as all the day’s translation requests will have reached your inbox by then.
Most translation requests come from PI Wire, especially for ES, PT-BR, FR, IT, AR, Zh-Hans, RU, JA, and HI. If you would prefer not to receive these emails, you can ask to be excluded from the PI Wire list, which will reduce the number of translation-related emails you receive.
3. Not Sure What to Read? Ask Yourself:
- Is there something here that supports my growth or community involvement?
- Is this related to something I signed up for?
- Is this a resource I may want to use later? (If so, save it to your OLI / Elevate folder!)
4. Practice Email Mindfulness
It’s okay not to read everything immediately. Our goal is to inform, not overwhelm. Skim. Flag. Delete. Breathe.
We’re so grateful to have you as part of this global community — and we’re always working to keep the balance right between staying informed and staying sane.
Do you have a suggestion for how we could improve email communication? Just let us know. We’re listening.
By Susan, Head of Learning and Development, and Chinthi, Head of Language Services