With most of our current communication moving to Zoom calls, and group chats, we need to set a few standards for remote communication as we work to navigate these new changes. Here are 3 helpful remote communication tips to help your business adjust to the current “new normal.”
- Set expectations- Get with your team to determine what should be an email vs what should be a chat vs a phone/video call. When in doubt, pick up the phone. Does your team use an instant messaging service? Casual conversations, project updates, & FYIs are typically used in chat, while more detailed issues or in-depth questions are typically used in email.
- Give emails context- In written items, give context and over-communicate to avoid assumptions. Short bulleted info items on who, what, when, where, why should give the receiver the info they need to proceed, or ask follow up questions.
- Be aware of tone- We all know that there are two types of communication- verbal & non-verbal. But really there’s a third type that we’re all hyper-aware of now- written communication. It can be tough to show body language, tone of voice, or general attitude towards a subject when trying to construct an effective email. Know your audience. Be kinder than necessary. Wait to respond to emails that are triggering by learning to “simmer.” Kick negative patterns like using caps lock for emphasis or never saying thank you to the curb ASAP. Stay optimistic- humor can be the relief valve we all need right now!
