A simple guide to asynchronous communication
Parent Post
Currently most companies are
Currently most companies are entirely remote or hybrid and will be so for the foreseeable future.
But we are not working alone, without distraction. Most of us are working with roommates, spouses, kids and pets.
So we’ve had to adjust to a new normal– and that means that real-time communication just isn’t always possible.
So how do you
So how do you increase productivity while allowing your teams the flexibility to take care of their families and themselves?
Increase your use of asynchronous communication.
Asynchronous communication is sending a message and not expecting an immediate response. It allows you to have more time to take action and reflect.
Email It’s debatable that Slack
It’s debatable that Slack is actually a synchronous tool. It is often used as a tool that requires a quick and timely response. Try bringing back the email.
Rather than just sending an important update or thought in Slack, send a text email, or an email with both video and in text.
For all of these, consider “do I need an immediate response?” and “am I respecting people’s time?
Video Zoom is great. But
Video
Zoom is great. But Zoom fatigue is real. Instead, if you have feedback on a slide deck, want to answer questions, or share some news, record a video of yourself.
That way, you can record it when it’s convenient for you, and allow your team to watch it on their own time.
Ensure that we are
Ensure that we are communicating with each other in a way that allows people to do their deep work and take care of themselves while staying informed about goals.
This work from home time will not last forever. But while it does, it’s imperative that we all figure out new ways to communicate and adapt our work styles to fit this new environment.
When we are all
When we are all working from home, it can be difficult to find time to take a break or do deep work because in-person interactions now require scheduling a call.
Asynchronous video allows you to show your face and expressions, quickly send something through what’s on your mind and keep in touch in a real way.
AudioRather than calling someone
Audio
Rather than calling someone and interrupting them, leave a quick audio message with your thoughts and feedback and they can reply on their own time.
Next time you want to call someone to share a reflection, feedback or an idea, consider sending a voice note instead. If it’s not urgent, why make it feel that way for the other person?