Communication Ideals

Communication is such an overused buzzword that it’s not always given the attention that it should have. However, knowing your team’s communication needs is important for everyone, whether that team is with clients or internal resources. The easiest way to avoid information overload is to appropriately share messages. Using the right communication method for sharing information gives you and your team the confidence and knowledge to keep pushing forward. There are three methods of communication that when used together streamline communication for the team and help drive the project.

Interactive communication

Interactive communication is real time talk between at least two active parties. It provides a space for everyone to contribute and be heard while also providing immediate answers. It’s ideal for getting questions and concerns addressed quickly; allowing everyone to keep pushing forward on projects and deadlines. Meetings, conference calls or passing chatter can all be examples of interactive communication but what’s great about having these conversations face to face is that it allows you to pick up on other’s body language and facial expressions. These nonverbal cues can help drive the conversation to be more helpful and productive. Working with a remote company we use Zoom for video conferences constantly for interactive communication. We also pick up the phone and call each other (pretty old school, I know) to review the day or to talk through what’s coming down the line.

Push communication

Push communication is a broadcast type that puts the sender in control. They decide who receives what information, how they receive it, and when. It’s usually used when information that is interesting, important, or time-sensitive needs to be passed along. For example, push notifications that you receive on your phone, no feedback or interaction is really needed but the message itself needs to be received. Push communication is a powerful method to use to share information with those who need it without disrupting their workflow. Zapier is a great tool for push communication. We use it to schedule reminders or automatically distribute messages to team members by integrating it into our Slack.

Pull communication

Pull communication puts the receiver in control. It’s typically used for passing off informational messages that are not time sensitive or might be needed later but it lets the receiver access it at their own discretion. Pull communication is great for research and past work. It allows your resources to access what they need when they need it. Basecamp, Google Drive, and Teamwork all have great pull communication options built into their platforms. Having a dedicated space with organized files helps to set your team up for success.

The methods of communication are fine by themselves but combining them allow you to create the best environment for you and your team. It gives clients and resources the space to feel supported and self driven without being micro managed or dragged along. The ideal working environment (for everyone) offers a balance of pushing relevant and needed information to your clients or resources on a regular basis, maintaining their interest over time by offering convenient access to the information they need, and engaging with them through interactive conversations within the process.

Obviously, there isn’t a one size fits all for communication styles. It’s all dependent on the team size and location as well as the project itself. These communication styles are meant to be used together to streamline your projects and create the best working environment for your team.