Once upon a time, interpersonal skills were associated primarily with face-to-face interactions. Fast forward to 2023, and the landscape has drastically changed. As remote work and digital communication tools aren’t going anywhere, the demand for individuals with robust interpersonal skills is sky-high. And why not? After all, no matter how advanced our machines get, they simply cannot replicate the lively, engaging, and instinctual nature of human communication perfectly.
So, let’s talk about the art of digital communication and explore some effective techniques to enhance your communication skills in this digital era.
Active and intense listening is the cornerstone of successful communication. When someone else is speaking, show that you’re involved in the conversation. Nod, make eye contact, take notes, and ask relevant follow-up questions. Remember, communication is not just about speaking, it’s also about listening and understanding1.
In this digital world, our devices often become our biggest distractions. So, try to detach from your phone during meetings. If your phone is on, it can divert your attention from the ongoing discussion, which isn’t fair to others in the meeting1.
Effective communication is all about tailoring your message to your goal and audience. Whether you’re using oral, written, or non-verbal communication, think about your objective, the action you want the audience to take, and then choose the most suitable method to achieve that goal1.
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Written communication has its unique challenges. Remember to always proofread your messages before hitting send. Be clear, concise, and beware of sarcasm as it’s hard to convey in writing. Emojis can be a great way to reinforce the underlying sentiment and help portray the desired emotion1.
One of the secrets to compelling communication is storytelling. Instead of relying on facts and figures, create a narrative that drives your core message home. Link the information to real-world events or anecdotes to make it more relatable and impactful1.
Over-communication can be a great strategy in a digital world. Even when you think you’ve made something crystal clear, reiterate it. And don’t forget to summarize the key points at the end of a meeting or call, reiterating any actions that others need to take1.
Recognize that remote communication is different from in-person communication. You might need to adjust the length of your meetings or change your communication style when working remotely1.
Use the right tool for the right task. Different communication tools are best suited for different types of interactions. For instance, you might use Slack for informal chats, email for formal work requests, and project management software for project status updates1.
If possible, embrace video as the default format for remote meetings. Non-verbal signals are an essential part of communication, and audio-only calls can miss these important cues1.
Always remember that you’re on camera during video calls. Be mindful of your body language and facial expressions and ensure you’re making eye contact with the camera1.
And lastly, don’t forget to make time for casual interactions. These small, informal exchanges can foster a sense of camaraderie and shared understanding among team members, even when you’re miles apart1.
In essence, the art of digital communication is a skill that is becoming increasingly crucial in today’s remote work era. By adopting these tips and techniques, you can become a more effective and engaging communicator in a digital world.
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