Communicating With Etiquette
In a constantly changing world of business, the mediums for communications have become wide and varied. As a business professional, it is important to not only be cognizant of the affect a certain medium has, but it is also important to lead by using them effectively. The following helps to focus and capture how and when to use the different options available today.
Tools For Connecting
“Communication is not what is said, but what is heard.” – Stephen Covey
The following tools inherently have benefits and limitations in their use. Master them accordingly:
Highly efficient to communicate quickly. Writing to get action from others makes this an ideal medium.
Assume anything you write lives forever in the digital domain. This can carry legal consequences. Furthermore, a lack of discipline in grammar because of the convenience can damage your personal brand.
Letter
This communicates formality. Paper still dominates t
he legal world. Transact using letters as a legal, formal or professional approach. A well- designed letter makes a perfect formal introduction to a new person with a well-designed sales approach.
Grammar needs to be attended to. Use www.whitesmoke.com as an aide to perfect grammar and spelling.
Fax
Fast letter delivery. Contractual and legal comm
unications honor this medium.
Quality is poor when received. At the least use a digital online fax service to send faxes.
Handwritten Note
This communicates a more personal tone and conn
ection. Like art, this medium has assumed more value because of its scarcity.
Cheap paper or cards can detract from the intent and damage a personal brand.
Pinger
This is a highly convenient method to drive on
e-way communications to people.
Leave short and focused voicemails. Too much detail is not appropriate for this medium.
Text Messaging (SMS)
This is no longer a hobby of teens. SMS do
es not interrupt the recipient like other mediums. Use text messaging to get an answer or make a decision quickly. The recipient can remain discreet and correspond with you.
Do not assume everyone knows teen shorthand. Remain professional, yet concise. You may not get an immediate response. If this is required, call.
Joopz
Having quick, short access to everyone without distu
rbing them is an advantage. You can do this from a browser or your Outlook to communicate to their cell phone. You can text an entire group quickly.
Some conversations need a phone call rather than incessant texting. Be aware of the difference.
Instant Messaging
Allows multi-tasking. A conversation drives forward increment
ally between the parties. The quick access to needed people resources is strategic.
You are interruptible and giving permission to your network to engage you. Use etiquette in starting a conversation and use the online controls to communicate your availability.
AudioGenerator
A highly strategic method for delivering both dire
ct and third-party endorsement and messaging. This elevates your positioning through a templated format.
Ensure this is presented with an easy way to hyperlink. The recipient needs to merely click and listen. Extra steps are cumbersome.
HelloWorld
Cutting edge video email which helps to
deliver expression and intonation by the sender.
Know what delivery you are sending – formal or casual. Both require different presentation.
Best Practices
- Own your communications
- Be aware of the consequence of each medium
- Ask, “How do I best connect?”
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