The ability to type and send messages, any time of day, in an array of methods, while arguably timesaving, creates significant communication gaffs. From email to Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Plaxo, and phone-text messaging, bright, eloquent people are reduced to tabloid columnists with the stroke of key. Would-be leaders create irreparable damage to client and team relationships. Friendships are damaged. And the ability to save time ultimately works in reverse.
With the invention of the telephone, the world’s population was forced to learn to communicate without the benefit of facial expression. Early efforts were undoubtedly problematic, and still today, over a century later, misunderstandings occur daily. Advancements in communication technology require similar advancements in education, training, and discipline when it comes to the use of that technology. If it is your goal to be a quality leader (or friend) in today’s environment, then it is essential that you master the communication tools you employ.
Listed below are simple rules for all forms of non-verbal communication. Whenever you find yourself typing, or speech-to-text communicating, if you follow these guidelines, your leadership qualities will be elevated and your friendships improved.
Rules of text-based communication:
- Do not type or attach anything that you would be embarrased to see on the front page of your local newspaper.
- Never send text-media when you are mad. You can type it, even store it for review later, but if you hit the last period or exclamation point hard enough to damage your keypad, wait until a cooler head prevails to hit send.
- Always add the recipient(s) last – in this way you cannot accidently send without truly wanting to do so.
- Don’t type content you wouldn’t deliver in person. If you can’t say it face-to-face – don’t type it.
- Never use text-media to communicate on personal issues such as employee reprimands, terminations, or any interpersonal issues.
- Remember that when you hit send, share or post – you have sent your message into the world for any and all to see – assume this is what will occur and create the content accordingly.
- Always spell / grammar-check your copy. Regardless of whether your kids talk in text-speak, your written content speaks volumes about your professional capabilities. If you are sloppy here – you are sloppy period.
- Never use text-media while operating a vehicle. There is no message more important than a human life. And if you take or damage a life while breaking this rule, no amount of messaging will ever set you free.
When it comes to communication technology, just because you can use it at this very minute, with this very thought – doesn’t mean that you should. Tools require skill to create the desired outcome – improve your communication skills and feel the results.
