Welcome back to another insightful Develpreneur conversation with Rob and Michael on communication. In this episode, they focus on tools and expectations. Over the years, communication methods have evolved significantly, and with them, the expectations surrounding their use have also changed. Today, we'll explore different types of communication tools, the appropriate contexts for each, and how to manage expectations around them.
When many of us started our careers, options were limited to email and newsgroups. Text messaging was unheard of, and instant messaging platforms were still in their infancy. Today, we have many communication tools, each serving different purposes and contexts, both personal and professional.
Text messaging on personal phones represents the most immediate form of communication. This is akin to someone tapping you on the shoulder, expecting a quick response. In a professional setting, tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams serve a similar purpose. These platforms are more passive compared to text messages but still imply a need for timely responses during work hours.
Moving beyond instant communication, we enter the realm of dialog-based tools, such as email. Unlike instant messaging, emails allow for more thought-out responses and generally have a lower expectation for immediate replies. Social media messages, like those on LinkedIn or Facebook, also fall into this category but often carry even less urgency.
With the variety of tools available, setting clear standards within your organization or personal workflow is crucial. Understanding the urgency and expected response times for different communication methods helps manage both sender and receiver expectations.
A key point raised was the importance of setting boundaries, particularly when juggling personal life, primary job responsibilities, and side hustles. The type of job you have significantly impacts how you manage communications. For instance, those in mission-critical roles, such as healthcare, need to be more responsive to urgent communications, even outside regular working hours.
To maintain a balance, prioritize communication channels:
Modern tools offer ways to manage availability and notifications effectively:
Utilize calendars to block out time for focused work, meetings, and personal breaks. This transparency helps colleagues understand your availability and plan accordingly. Additionally, communicate your working hours clearly to manage expectations around response times.
It's crucial to take control of digital tools rather than letting them control you:
Navigating the myriad communication tools available today requires a thoughtful approach to managing expectations and maintaining work-life balance. By prioritizing channels, setting boundaries, and effectively using technology, we can ensure that communication remains efficient and effective without overwhelming our lives. Take these insights, apply them to your daily routine, and experience a more balanced, productive approach to communication.
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