Without effective communication methods it can be difficult to implement and maintain any sort of structure within a company. There must be clear lines of communication between staff and directions must be clear, concise and to the point.
When dealing with clients and attempting to build long term relationships that will benefit your business you must learn how to communicate effectively. For advertising and networking purposes also, you need a clear idea of where your business is headed, its goals and ideals, and also the right way to get that message across.
Technology has changed the way we think and interact as human beings. Face to face business meetings are fast becoming the exception rather than the rule. There is a broad range of communication methods available to us all and each give a different advantage and disadvantage. It is about choosing the correct method for your business at any given time.
Telephones are still the most popular method of business communication. From cold calling, to client relationship building it has become a staple of business. In the modern age where almost everyone has a mobile phone, if you are trying to get hold of a client or supplier, it is more than likely you will be able to reach them via the phone, no matter the time of day or their location.
Mail is the only way to ensure the delivery and receipt of hard copy documents. Although it is not as fast as more modern ways of communication it is still widely used.
Swiftly replacing letters as a method of business communication as the internet took hold, emails offer a fast route to reply to every day questions, gives you the scope to send and receive important documents, samples, contracts, invoices and receipts. It is a great way to maintain the upkeep of a documentation system as you can easily file and store away vital information.
Conference Calling allows for immediate interaction between clients and remote staff. The quality is as good as if you were in the room with someone with modern technology providing a sound and stable platform from which to communicate. It saves time and potential finances through negating the need for long distance travelling and opening up potential market places anywhere in the world
An ultra modern approach to business communication is through social media, using the internet to interact with clients, create blogging systems in order to post daily updates, provide offers to clients and give them an easy way to interact with you and give you feedback. It can be a successful way to create and sustain a brand presence.
With a myriad of communication options now available to businesses around the world, it is about researching and figuring out what is best for you and your business at whatever stage you are at. You must think about ease of use and cost in any given situation.
Matt Smith – Freelance business, conference call and technology blogger.
