Top 5 Communication Techniques in Business Today

Article Contributed by Kevin Schweizer

There are so many different communication technologies available today. Most of us at one time or another has heard our own parents talk about their amazement at just how different today’s smart phones are from the first mobile phones they remember coming into the market. Staying up to date on the latest communication methods can be especially important in business, and the use of these technologies can greatly improve the quality of your interoffice and client communications. Let’s take a look at a few of the most used methods and how they can help you be more effective in your own business communications.

Face-to-Face

The most tried and true method to date, face-to-face communication is still (and I would argue it forever will be) the most effective way to communicate ideas to coworkers and clients alike. Among all of the improvements in communication technology, don’t neglect strengthening this incredibly important skill. Not only will it make you more approachable as a coworker and manager, it will also transfer into a proficiency in other methods as well.

Email

Though this method seems almost ancient compared to others, it’s also one that has lasted through the ups and downs of so many other fads. Of course, it has been greatly enhanced by accompanying tools such as instant messaging, Google Drive (previously Google Docs), and calendars. Still, effective written communication is still a very important skill to the majority of employers, and one that seems to be dwindling among otherwise tech-savvy applicants.

Phone/Teleconferencing

Telemarketers aren’t the only ones who need to work on their “phone voice”. Phone calls are still a huge part of client communications today, and teleconferencing has become commonplace in any large organization. Phone calls can be very effective when a face-to-face meeting isn’t an option, or for less lengthy client meetings. However, the ever-increasing expense, especially for international calls, as well as disruption issues has pushed many organizations to search for more economic options.

VoIP

Created to combat some of the problems with traditional phone companies, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is growing in popularity for small businesses. The main benefit of VoIP is that it is generally much less expensive that a traditional phone line. This is especially true for international calls, which previously have been a huge cost for any company involved in global business. Through VoIP, anyone with a reliable internet connection can enjoy a global network for next to nothing compared to traditional land lines. Learn more about VoIP services.

Video Conferencing

Similar to teleconferencing, video conferencing allows for group conferencing. The major difference is that video conferencing services allow you to project video along with regular voice. This method takes conferencing yet one step closer to face-to-face communication when an in-person meeting isn’t available. Some mainstream examples are Skype and FaceTime, though there are specific services available for business conferencing.

While there are plenty of communication technologies on the market, these are the most widespread and accessible for small business. Through the development of further methods, remember that the development of oral and written communication will forever be vital in business and will remain relevant throughout technological changes to come.

About the Author

Kevin Schweizer is the Online Marketing Manager for Phone.com, an internet-based company specializing in home and small business phone, virtual office, and virtual number services. When Kevin isn’t writing, he can be found watching the NFL and researching medieval castles.