Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
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What is the context or subject of the communication? If you want
to discuss something serious or enlist someone's help and support,
verbal communication is often the best approach.
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Am I likely to need a record of the communication? Written com-
munications are generally best when you need a record of proof.
An email may suffice, but a legal document or formal notification
or application may require a typed letter sent by regular mail ser-
vice. For business communication, address the recipient formally,
using a courtesy title such as Mr., Mrs., or Ms., and use polite,
respectful language.
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Is the speed of communication important? Some people check their
email and social media messages frequently; other people do so
much less often. Check whether the person you want to communi-
cate with uses online communication regularly.
In any medium, stay calm and moderate your language, even if someone
is criticizing you. Slang and profanities undermine any argument.
Choosing the.Appropriate Online Medium
Using the right means of online communication shows you understand
what message you want to get across and whom you are corresponding
with.
The following checklist can help you choose the right medium for the
particular occasion.
Email
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Suitable for most types of communication, especially if they are not
time-sensitive.
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Good for formal messages and communication with strangers.
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Provides a permanent record of outgoing and incoming messages
(unless, of course, you delete them).
Instant messaging
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Ideal to get a quick answer to a question or for passing small
amounts of information between colleagues.
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Useful for quick updates with friends.
Social networking—personal
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Appropriate mainly for your personal world.
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Useful for informing your network of friends what is happening in
your life, not necessarily work related.
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Good for posting photos and videos of recent events you've been
involved in.
Social networking—business
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Increasingly used for advertising and business promotion.
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Many social networking sites are dedicated fully or in part to
matching job-seekers with potential employers.
