Don't be a tool when communicating in 2017.

Did you see my Facebook status? That was one of the first questions that I was asked as I came back to work today. We live in a digital world that is consumed with status updates, tweets and trending news stories. If you look around your work area as you read this you will see phones, blue tooth speakers and chargers covering large amounts of desktop space.

So with all of these conveniences and constant live streams we have become better communicators right? I would say no, absolutely no. We are terrible communicators. We talk, we don’t listen. We post updates that are fake or inconsequential. We do not interact with our co-workers we observe them. So how can we make 2017 the year of better communications?

1.Stop emailing co-workers- An email is an impersonal electronic communication that allows both users the opportunity to set the pace or lack of pace of any request sent this way. Walk over and have a conversation, immediately. Make a meaningful impact on a project by soliciting input in person and then follow up with a thank you and documenting of result’s or conclusions. Emails are a good tool to clarify or define a project but require real time involvement to maximize results.

2.Put down the phone during breaks or lunches- Chic-Fila recently had a promotion where a family could put all of its cell phones in a box during a meal and receive a free ice-cream. The results of a working lunch, free of digital distractions can be just as rewarding. Use this time to learn about your co-workers and enjoy the fruits of better working relationships long term.

3.Conversations involve listening- Becoming a better communicator can sometimes be accomplished by listening more. Communication is defined as: The imparting or exchanging of information or news. An exchange must take place, facilitate this by listening more. You might be amazed at what you hear.

This is a simple start to the problems we face as communicators in a digital world. If you have further ideas please leave your suggestions in the comments section so others can share your ideas. Please follow me on twitter @thebeardedcole