Email signatures matter.

Here's why.It is no secret that business of the 21st century is much different than it ever was before.Business deals being made on napkins at a diner have all but ceased and a new form of "napkin" has moved in the electronic napkin.And now, more than ever, it is important to leave your contact information for the receiver with every email and text message sent.Adding a signature to your emails and text messages serves a few purposes:1. It gives you and your business credibility.Business owners are receiving hundreds of emails a day soliciting some type of service or another, your email can instantly be qualified, as can your business, if you include an inclusive concise signature.2. It provides contact information.This may seem obvious, but if you send an email or text and do not include the basics, how will the receiver know who you are and how to get in contact with you?It is important to remember that people are reading emails from multiple platforms (desktop, phone, tablet, etc.) and your information may not be stored on each device.3. It provides marketing and branding.Signatures are another way for you to brand your business.Some companies choose to create an electronic version of their business card to use as email signatures.This is a great idea but remember to also include your information in text form, as not everyone will be able to load or read the graphics.4. It displays your commitment to excellence.Be sure to change the factory message on your phone."Sent from my iPhone" is generic and should be updated to include your name and contact number.This little detail could be just the edge you need over the competition.5. Email is just that, electronic mail.Think about it … would you send a letter in the mail without signing it?Remember Keep it simple.Include only the necessary information: company name, your name, title/position with company, phone number (office and mobile), website link, office address, social network, profile links, any necessary legal disclaimers.Alice Wanamaker is member relations director for the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation.