Good communication is essential to be successful in business. That has been the case for a very long time. However, the fast changing technology and the world's globalization in the last few decades has challenged many individuals as never before.

Nowadays it is not just the content of your message that counts, you also have to chose the right means for communication. The use of letters has been reduced to issues of very special importance. This to an extent that many people already feel uncomfortable opening a letter knowing it will really matter. Faxes are either purchase orders or unwanted advertisements and many people wonder why these machines still exist. Then there are messages suitable for E-mail, and others allowed to be used in an SMS, MSN or of course direct telephone communication.

But one is not just expected to choose the right communication tool, but also to adjust the use of language. For example "C U" means "See You" in an SMS or MSN but would never be used in an E-mail or elsewhere. Complicated? Yes, it is. Do we have a choice? No, I am afraid not.

Very few things so clearly give you the impression of belonging to a different generation than the difficulty of accepting a new communication technology. Many among those who are at least in their mid thirties may question the benefits of typing a SMS for several minutes on a tiny mobile phone keyboard when the very same device would allow a direct communication within seconds. They can rest assured that others share their doubts, but yet, one has to play along.

In business, however, people must adapt quickly. Drawings, pictures, compressed files, animated presentations etc., all in electronic form, shall help to bring your message across. Therefore you are well advised to know how to handle PDF, JPG, ZIP, AVI or PPT formats or how to compete in an internet auction if requested.

In addition to this communication jungle, globalization has its impact too. Here the necessary adjustments are more related to the cultural background. You will have a huge advantage by recognizing that your small talk, your level of politeness and respect or sense of humor should be adjusted to the culture you are dealing with.

Well, these are just a few examples. What is important is to accept the fact that lagging behind in communication skills, is simply out of the question for a modern business. Your time and money used to improve such skill is likely to be a very good investment.

Best Regards
Andrzej Wojtas (Ph.D.), Chief Editor MFN

andrzej@mfn.li

Author: Andrzej Wojtas (Ph.D.)