E-Communication has revolutionized the way businesses operate, fostering faster business communication, improved collaboration, and increased efficiency.
Common E-Communication channels in business
Here’s a deep dive into its impact:
- E-Mail. E-Communication is based on E-Mail in a modern business organization which has replaced standard mail in the majority of business correspondence. The most ubiquitous form, E-Mail allows asynchronous communication for sending reports, updates, and project documents. The average number of E-Mails received daily by employees is between one and 10.
- E-Meetings. E-Meetings can happen thanks to videoconferencing which is an effective way for people at diverse locations to meet and talk to each other. Tools like Zoom and Google Meet facilitate face-to-face interactions remotely, ideal for meetings, presentations, and client calls. The biggest advantage is time and cost savings from reduced corporate travels. Additional advantages of E-meetings include encouraging participation, allowing participants to contribute and vote at the same time, stimulating debate, accelerating the place of meetings and sharing decision making. However, it is not appropriate for all business, especially when conflicts or emotions are involved or when a relationship requires personal interaction to flourish.
- Instant messaging and chat. Platforms like Slack enable real-time communication for quick discussions, brainstorming, and resolving urgent matters.
- Project management tools. Asana and Trello help teams organize tasks, track progress, and share files, promoting transparency and accountability.
- Social Media. Businesses leverage platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter for branding, customer engagement, and market research.
Corporate guidelines for E-Communication
Effective electronic communication is the lifeblood of any modern business. It fosters collaboration, drives productivity, and shapes your company culture. To ensure everyone’s on the same page, clear and comprehensive corporate guidelines are essential.
Employee E-Mail surveillance is common with most of the companies monitoring their employees’ E-Mails. Clear corporate policy regarding E-Communication should include:
- Why E-Mail is monitored?
- Who monitors E-Mail?
- How long E-Mail is archived?
- How often it is deleted?
- What is improper or illicit use?
- What are the consequences of improper use?
Legally, deleted messages can be acquired by a court of law, therefore E-Mail is not a place for sensitive issues. Stating negative opinions about an employee, while using E-Mail gives merit to discrimination or termination lawsuits. Attorneys count on E-Mail archives to be ripe with incriminating information.
E-Communication etiquette
Do not write anything that you would not post on your office door. Email should be ‘a substitute conversation where the information being exchanged is not controversial’.
Always monitor what you write about others because you have no control over sent messages.
Use the Subject Line. Keep your message concise. Include the previous message when necessary.
Be careful with file attachments. DO NOT USE ALL CAPS. Avoid abbreviations or emoticons.
Finally, do not write in anger. And rarely ‘Reply All’.
By embracing E-Communication effectively, businesses can unlock a new level of collaboration, efficiency, and success in today’s digital age.
And, by implementing these guidelines and fostering a culture of mindful E-Communication, you can ensure that your team stays connected, productive, and professional in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
