In this electronic age, we are used to sending an email and having it arrive at the recipient’s mailbox in a matter of seconds. Sometimes though, the message can take days (or even weeks) to get there. What happens in these cases? Typically, there are three technical issues that can cause this kind of delay.
User Error
The most common reason is that the individual simply forgot to click Send. Whether they got distracted or they closed the browser too quickly, what usually happens is that the email gets saved in the Draft folder instead. These unsent messages can remain unnoticed for a while before that person finally spots their mistake and then sends the email on its way.
ISP Issues
Delays can also occur due to problems with either the sender’s or the recipient’s internet service provider (ISP). Determining which one may be at fault is simple:
- If you are having frequent issues with emails from one person, there is likely an issue with their ISP.
- If all of your emails come in a few days late regardless of the sender, your ISP may be to blame.
Getting in touch with the appropriate ISP support line can help fix these issues and ensure all incoming emails arrive in a timely manner.
Email Settings
Finally, make sure to check all of your computer settings to see that everything is optimised for efficient email acquisition. To do this, carefully go through the following:
- Email settings such as message rules
- Spam and security program filters
You can even try using different email programs and anti spam filter software on your computer and see if those are causing any technical difficulties. With a little methodical searching, you can pinpoint the problem and thus get your emails without having to wait days for their arrival.