We sometimes try to be efficient by using as few words as possible to communicate a message. But a one- or two-line email can waste everyone’s time if colleagues have to decipher the meaning or write back to clarify next steps. Don’t assume that others understand your shorthand. Take the time to communicate in a way that’s ultra-clear, no matter what medium you’re using (or how much of a hurry you’re in). But don’t go too far in the other direction, bombarding your team with messages in an effort to avoid any ambiguity. If you’re clear in your original message, you shouldn’t have to follow up. And definitely avoid abusing multiple channels. No one likes a colleague who texts or calls to ask if you’ve read their message.
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