[jamesbritt]

To the people saying "4-5 hours" for a response: I would really disappoint you. I check my mail pretty regularly[0] but make a point of not responding too quickly to many things because I do not want to say something in haste.

Sure, if there is a time-factor involved I will try to answer faster, but the limiting factor is rarely the frequency of my checking mail but my desire to be more thoughtful in my reply.

When sending mail I assume the same is true of others. They may have gotten my message right away but might want to put some thought into their reply. For most things I expect an answer in about 24 hours.

[0]: When I am heads-down working I put off checking E-mail because it is distracting. I'll skip it for several hours. Clients and friends will call me if something is urgent.

[wtpiu]

On the same page in terms of checking emails frequently, but not necessarily responding immediately so that I can formulate a more complete response / address it fully when I have the time. That being said, what are your thoughts when someone takes a little too long to respond? Do you actively notice when people take longer than anticipated?

[jamesbritt]

Oh yes. Some things I know take time, but if I don't hear back in a day or so I start getting antsy :). But I dislike being a pest, so I set a reminder for myself to follow-up after what feels like reasonable amount of time, and try to phrase my follow-up in way that doesn't come off as "Hurry up!"