Table 1.2 Online Communication Competence

Online Competence Suggestion Best Practices Suggestion

1. Match the gravity of your message to your communication medium.

Online is best for quick reminders, linear messages, or messages that require time and thought to craft. Offline is best for important information: engagements, health issues, etc.

2. Don’t assume that online communication is always more efficient.

If your message needs a quick decision or answer, a phone call or face-to-face conversation may be best. Use online communication if you want the person to have time to respond.

3. Presume that your posts are public.

If you wouldn’t want a message published for public consumption, don’t post/send it online.

4. Remember that your posts are permanent.

Even after you delete something, it still exists on servers and may be accessible.

5. Practice the art of creating drafts.

Don’t succumb to the pressure to respond to e-mails immediately. Taking your time will result in a more competent message.