I’ve been thinking a lot about content and AI lately, but even more so (as we grapple with change) I’ve thought about how we can improve our personal communication. In a world that feels more and more virtual with every new hack, gadget or app, how can we better communicate with one other, with intention and clarity?
I read this article last month and I revisited it this morning because I think it’s a good reminder on how to accomplish just that. More successful communication.
https://www.fastcompany.com/91281272/5-tips-virtual-communication
What do you think?
I think this example of a nonverbal cue is enough for me to want to critique every emoji I’ve used in months. What are we, and aren’t we, saying these days that needs said? Don’t be the farmer—use words, all the words you need. Just not too many. Be succinct. Communication seems intuitive until it isn’t. Take this author’s advice and think about their PING acronym today.
A Canadian farmer got himself into trouble when he responded to a customer’s text about an order of flax seed with a thumbs-up emoji. The issue was that the customer thought the thumbs up meant the contract was accepted. The farmer disagreed, saying he hadn’t planned on accepting it just yet. The court sided with the customer, stating that the thumbs up constituted a legally binding agreement. The farmer had to pay almost $62,000.