Don't over-communicate

Don't over-communicate

 

One of the problems with business communications is that there's too much of it. When it's possible to send a message to hundreds of people with the click of a mouse, the ease of communication aggravates the problem. Voice mail invites us to leave a message even though the response may come too late. People publicizing their cellular telephone numbers invite intrusions wherever they happen to be at the time. Call forwarding makes sure any problems follow them. E-mail allows 24-hour per day communications. Insomniacs can pick up their mail at 3 a.m. And workaholics can take their electronic office home with them.

 

Since we have been conditioned to respond to messages rather than ignore them, working hours are extended; stress in increased and time is at a premium. Executives report that they receive over 100 email messages per day. Even if they don't have to respond to most of them, they have to scan them in order to determine this.

 

It's time to ease up on communication. Before you call, email or fax, ask yourself a question. "Is this communication necessary?" Would not sending it have a negative impact on the success or well being of yourself or the receiver? Be more selective. Send information only to those who need it or are in a position to do something about it. Don't send every snippet of information to everyone on your database. And when on the receiving end, be selective as well.