Communication has changed so much in the past decade or two. It was the norm to show up to a friends house unexpected, now that would be a bit weird? In fact, I don’t even have a door bell on my front door because anyone who comes by, texts me first. Similar, communication in business has changed so much.
E-mail is not an instant messenger
This one is pretty specific to business. I certainly am known for quick replies. However, expectations need to be looked at. E-mails should be answered within 24 hours, not 24 seconds.
Try and acknowledge the email even if you can’t send a full response. Send a short response that you’re working on it and let them know when you plan to have a full response.
Facebook Messenger is a beast
Messenger is a great tool to stay in connect with friends, family and co-workers. It’s also a great way to connect with clients! Our agency uses Messenger for our staff group chat. We can share coffee orders, inspiration or let other team members know when we’re running behind or have a quick question.
Messenger is a great way to stay in contact with family too. You can share files, video chat and it’s available from desktop and from mobile.
Phone calls are still a must
Too many times I have received a text or email that says “Please call me.” That one bothers me, maybe I need to get over that but why don’t YOU. CALL. ME.
Phone calls are important when sharing bad news, really great news or you need to ensure you’re tone is being received correctly. It’s happened to us all – you think you’re sending a respectful, no drama text that ends up being poorly received.. that’s when you need to pick up the phone!
Texting isn’t always the best choice
Just like email, something things are urgent or can be resolved with a quick phone call. With texting, you don’t have to have the last word or end the conversation with a goodbye. But if you need to say thanks or okay, say ‘thank you’ or ‘okay’ rather than ‘thankU’ or ‘k.’
No one likes the classic “K.”
Voicemails are handy, but there are better alternatives
Checking a voicemail is bit time-consuming. I have to call my voicemail, enter my password, hit another button to check my voicemails and then hear your message.
We all get a notification to our phone when we have a missed call. Make it easier for the person you’re calling and send them a follow up text and let them know why you called! This is a time saver and will give the person a heads up what’s up.
If you get a voicemail, try and respond within 24 hours!
I hope some of these points make sense and help you respectfully and professionally communicate effectively! Some people might not love these guidelines but others will. The way we communicate has changed so much in the last few years.
