Topic: Non-Verbal, Visual, & Electronic Communication
Lesson 3: Topic: Non-Verbal, Visual, & Electronic Communication
Electronic communication has revolutionized the speed, reach, and nature of business interaction, becoming the default channel for much routine and formal correspondence.
Email Communication:
- Definition: The exchange of digital messages via the internet.
- Types:
- Internal Email: Operates on a company’s Local Area Network (LAN), replacing internal memos.
- External Email: Sent via the internet to anyone with an email address.
- Advantages:
- Speed and Asynchronicity: Sent and read at the convenience of each party.
- Low Cost and Global Reach.
- Record-Keeping: Easy to file, search, and retrieve.
- Attachments: Can send documents, images, and other files.
- Disadvantages:
- Impersonality and Tone: Lacks non-verbal cues, leading to misinterpretation.
- Security Risks: Hacking, phishing, and malware.
- Information Overload: Can lead to clogged inboxes and important messages being missed.
- Misuse: Can be used for non-work purposes (“cyberslacking”).
Professional Email Etiquette:
- Clear Subject Line: Accurately summarizes content.
- Professional Salutation and Closing.
- Concise and Scannable Body: Use short paragraphs and bullet points.
- Formal Tone: Avoid slang, excessive exclamation points, and ALL CAPS (which is seen as shouting).
- Careful with “Reply All” and CC/BCC.
Other Digital Tools:
- Instant Messaging (IM)/Chat Apps: For quick, informal internal coordination (e.g., Slack, Teams).
- Intranet/Extranet: Private networks for internal (intranet) or partner (extranet) communication.
Collaboration Platforms: Tools like SharePoint or Google Workspace for shared document editing and project management.