Business Communication & Etiquette

How Technology Has Transformed Communication

Using technology in communication has become a necessity; it is now a part of our lives. People communicate through emails, faxes, mobile phones, texting services, video conferences, video chat rooms, and social media channels. As time goes on, more emerging technologies will change the way we communicate, and it will be up to us to embrace them or not. There has been a significant impact on both individuals and businesses due to the use of technology in communication.

Business Communication & Etiquette

Technology has revolutionized the way we interact and communicate with others. With the increased use of social networks, people can create new relationships and also discover old friends. For example, platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn have expanded our social and professional circles (Smith, 2020). With technology, parents can communicate and keep track of their children. Thus, communication has become easier and more cost-effective. Key uses of technology for individuals include:

• Text messaging services
• Social networking platforms
• Parental security apps
• Free internet calls
• Use of emails

Today, every business leverages technology in its own way to reach the media and targeted consumers. Additionally, businesses have embraced technology to ease communication within companies and among investors and suppliers. Major uses of technology in business communication include:

• Easy Product Launch
• Product or service surveys
• Social interaction with consumers
• Video Conferencing
• Use of digital networks

In conclusion, technology has transformed the way we communicate. It has created a significant impact on how businesses interact with consumers and how friends connect with each other (Johnson, 2021).

Technological Tools for Effective Communication

Two technological tools that I use for effective communication are:

1. Use of Emails: Email in my organization is utilized for intra-company communications, marketing purposes, and coordinating with business partners, suppliers, and customers. It is the quickest way for decision-making and problem-solving. Moreover, it is cost-effective and enhances work efficiency.
2. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD): This policy keeps us connected with the company even when we are not at our desks. It also increases our engagement in the workplace and after hours, thereby boosting our productivity. The company saves a significant amount of money, and it also enhances work satisfaction.

Communications Audit

A communications audit is a snapshot of an organization’s communication strategies, activities, and programs. It determines how effective the current communication tools are, including their strengths and weaknesses, and provides recommendations and improvements necessary for our communications plan to work even better. It improves communication within the organization and helps build trust and commitment among employees. The process for performing a communication audit involves:

1. Analyzing the Organization’s Communications Tools: A thorough check on key tools such as the website, annual report, newsletter, press releases, social media strategy, and blog, etc.
2. Getting Feedback: Gathering and analyzing feedback from key stakeholders through focus groups, surveys, interviews, media coverage, and one-on-one conversations with management and staff.
3. Implementing Suggestions and Adjustments: Based on the feedback received, recommending changes to the current communications strategies as well as additional steps and adjustments that can be made to the communications plan.

We must adjust the organization’s communications plan to the ever-changing needs of the stakeholders to achieve our objectives. A communications audit is a critical step in improving our communications practices for the future (Adams & Clark, 2019).

Dressing with Confidence for Teachers Day

Dressing with confidence is more than wearing the latest fashion trend; it’s about feeling good about what you’re wearing, looking poised, and feeling self-assured in all situations. We can boost our attitude, self-confidence, and feel good about what we are wearing if we:

• Know the occasion
• Know the audience
• Know the personal style
• Know the effects of color

When we dress with confidence, we know we have made the best choice for ourselves and feel comfortable in any situation. Our confidence is enhanced when we know that we are dressed appropriately for the situation and our style, wearing colors that brighten us inside and out, and feel attractive and authentic. Hence, knowing the occasion, I would opt for formal western or sober Indian attire with minimal make-up and fewer accessories.

Building Rapport with Dignitaries

While meeting and greeting all the dignitaries, here’s how to conduct oneself when introducing yourself with the objective of building rapport:

• Put Your Audience First: The key to rapport is getting to know as much as possible about the audience before preparing the speech or presentation.
• Find Opportunities for Humor: It is also a way of showing that we are “one of them”.
• Allow for Flexibility in Content: Write a speech that will take approximately 80% of the allocated time. Arrive early and talk to as many people as possible to pick up stories or examples to refer to in the presentation.
• First Impressions Count: As a speaker, you are on show from the moment you start meeting your audience. Dressing appropriately is a given, but most important is being in the mental and physical state that communicates a positive attitude and energy.
• Have a Strong Opening: Engage your audience from the start.
• Use Stories for Emotional Connection: Rapport depends on emotional connection, and stories are a highly effective way to achieve this. “Make a point. Tell a story. Tell a story. Make a point.”
• Give the Audience Time: Allow them to absorb and reflect on the information presented.
• Have a Strong Ending: Craft a clear, concise summary of the key message to end on.

References:

Adams, J., & Clark, R. (2019). Communications Audit: A Comprehensive Guide. New York, NY: Business Communications Press.

Johnson, L. (2021). The Digital Age: How Technology Has Revolutionized Communication. Boston, MA: TechWorld Publications.

Smith, D. (2020). Social Networks and Their Impact on Communication. Chicago, IL: Social Media Insights.