I see it time and time again, a client or potential client emails me from their work email when the basis of our relationship has no association with their work. Let’s make this simple: if you are seeking to pursue a project unrelated to your present job DO NOT USE YOUR WORK EMAIL.
WHY:
• OWNERSHIP: YOU do not own your work email, your EMPLOYER does. Therefore, YOU do not own the content contained within the emails, your EMPLOYER does;
• PRIVACY: YOU have no right to privacy from your EMPLOYER; YOU have no right to confidentiality of the content; YOU may lose attorney-client privilege;
• EMPLOYMENT: YOU may be violating the terms of your employment; and
• INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS: YOU may lose your rights to the content and ideas.
I cannot stress it enough, DO NOT use your work emails for your own business or personal use; WORK email => WORK functions.
Apropos work emails, if you ARE starting a business, show that you are serious and spend the few dollars to obtain your own domain. Gmail, AOL, yahoo, etc. can illustrate to some a wavering commitment even if you know that your ambitions are sincere. Make the statement that you have an established and legitimate business and pick up a domain.
If you are looking to get out of your 9-to-5 and are serious about starting your own business, contact us to discuss the details first. It will be in the best interest of you and your business.
Law Office of Jason H. Rosenblum, PLLC
Intellectually Protecting Your Property ®