Choosing the Right Method for the Message
Business communication encompasses various channels of communication, including meetings, letters, memos, print (publications), radio, television, telephone, word of mouth, and the Internet.
Specific Methods
Within those channels is a variety of specific methods. The Internet, for example, could entail a web-based advertising campaign, a social media advertising campaign, or a website.
Other methods of communication include:
- Meeting - This is a personal, interactive exchange often succeeded by a written follow-up.
- Letter - This is a formal method of communication typically suited for important messages such as proposals, inquiries, agreements, and recommendations.
- Video conference - These allow people in different locations to hold interactive meetings and interviews in real time.
- Telephone conference - These enable participants in different locations to share information.
- E-mail - This is a instantaneous medium for formal notices and updates, as well as informal exchanges.
- Report - This is the official documentation of the activities of any department or organization.
- Presentation - This method usually comprises a formal proposal, update, recommendation, or report involving audiovisual material, slideshows, and statistics.
- Web-based communication - This method is typically suited for leaving contact information (such as address and phone number) or for sharing transaction details (such as order confirmation).
- Forum This method allows members to post information publicly and efficiently in a centralized location.
With the variety of methods available, it is important to choose the right method for the message. A company-wide email detailing the holiday hours is acceptable, but a company-wide email listing terminations is not acceptable .
Choosing the right method for the message.
A company wide email detailing the holiday hours is acceptable, but a company wide email listing terminations is not acceptable.
When choosing the medium, consider the audience and their reaction to the message. For example, if the message is about employee benefits, the audience most likely will have questions, so this message is best presented in a group meeting that would allow for a question and answer session.