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Mastering digital interpersonal skills is no longer optional; it's a core component of professional success. As remote and hybrid work models become standard, the ability to communicate effectively through email, messaging, and video calls is critical for maintaining strong working relationships and project cohesion. Based on our assessment experience, professionals who excel in digital communication report higher levels of team trust and productivity. This guide breaks down the essential etiquette for the primary digital platforms you use every day.
Email remains the backbone of business communication, with the average employee spending a significant portion of their week managing their inbox. To ensure your emails build rather than hinder professional relationships, follow these guidelines.
Your email signature acts as your digital business card; always include your name, title, and contact information. This immediately establishes credibility. Salutations set the tone. When addressing a group, opt for neutral, inclusive phrases like "Hi team" or "Hello all," instead of informal greetings like "Hey guys." For an individual, "Hello [Name]" or "Dear [Name]" is appropriate.
Crucially, do not write emails as you speak. Without vocal tone and facial expressions, humor and sarcasm are easily misconstrued. Be concise and professional, avoiding overuse of exclamation points. Before hitting send, re-read your message to ensure nothing could be interpreted as harsh or offensive. This practice of asynchronous communication—where responses are not expected immediately—requires clarity above all else.
Instant messaging platforms (like Slack or Microsoft Teams) and video conferencing tools (like Zoom or Skype) require a different set of interpersonal skills. These are often used for synchronous communication, where immediate interaction is expected.
For instant messaging, which is ideal for quick questions or urgent updates, brevity is key. Get straight to the point and respond promptly. However, if an exchange requires more than three back-and-forth messages, it's more efficient to jump on a quick call. Maintain professionalism even in casual channels; avoid overusing emojis and excessive exclamation points, especially when communicating with superiors.
On video calls, your non-verbal cues are still highly visible. Be mindful that your tone conveys your attitude; speaking with enthusiasm and attentiveness is crucial. To combat audio lag, practice conscious pauses before speaking to avoid talking over colleagues. Instead of looking at the screen image of the person speaking, train yourself to look directly at the camera periodically. This simple action creates the illusion of eye contact, making you appear more engaged and respectful to other participants.
To excel in digital communication: prioritize clarity in emails, embrace brevity in messaging, and master non-verbal cues on video. Consistently applying these tailored interpersonal skills across different platforms will significantly enhance your professional reputation and collaborative effectiveness.
