Let's talk business!

With all the social media and collaboration tools now available on the web, its insane to me that businesses are still having trouble communicating. We have Skype, that allows us to have video conferences and share desktops; There's Google docs that makes it easy for various team members to work on word, excel, and PowerPoint presentations simultaneously; and the list continues. So what's the problem?

The only thing I can think of is a lack of knowledge. These methods of sharing are great, but they could be highly ineffective if even one member of the team is not very skilled at using that tool.

Another issue I find with these tools is that many times business people use these tools independently and forget that the best business tools we possess are our voices, our hands, and our physical proximity. For instance, it's great to use skype to make a presentation when physical distance is an issue, but I find that face-to-face presentations are more personal and at times may be more effective.

With this said, I personally love collaboration tools. When you have to work on something as a group and are meeting regularly to discuss the project, collaboration tools like Google docs add a ton of value. Instead of everyone working off one computer to do edits (which is extremely time ineffective), everyone can work on the document at the same time and on their own computers, but you still are able to communicate with your team through conversation. Skype's video calling and desktop sharing works similarly, but again only the person sharing their desktop can work on the screen.

What I want you to take from this, is the idea that these tools are not the only thing in your briefcase. You have your communication skills, your interpersonal skills and so-on. So don't forget to use them. No one tool is better than the other, but when combined, these tools can be highly effective.

Hoped this helped in your road to better communication. Drive safely my friends!