"it's harder to write a single, well-read, overelaborate email with all the details, than it is to send instant messages back-and-forth asking and answering que

"it's harder to write a single, well-read, overelaborate email with all the details, than it is to send instant messages back-and-forth asking and answering questions." While it might be harder for YOU, it is easier for the other person and takes up much less of their time. This is important for you to grasp. Your colleagues are not teachers, although you will be expected to learn from them. They are not paid primarily to answer your questions, unless they're internal support, they are paid to do their job. If you want to ask a question, ask the whole question, be precise, definitely don't start with "can I ask you a question? " and be prepared to wait for an answer. Don't expect them to drop everything and give you the answer now. Especially don't expect them to engage in a lengthy back and forth with you just because you can't be arsed to compose an email.