How can you use messaging apps to connect with stakeholders in real-time?

1 Choose the right app

When choosing a messaging app, it is important to consider factors such as the availability and compatibility of the app for your stakeholders, the features and functionalities, the security and privacy, as well as the cost and convenience. For example, WhatsApp may be ideal for international calls, Slack for team collaboration, or Signal for secure conversations. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to use different apps for different purposes. It is important to consider features such as voice, video, file sharing, group chats, encryption, data protection, compliance, subscription fees, bandwidth and user interface.

2 Set clear expectations

Messaging apps can be great for real-time communication, but they can also be overwhelming and distracting if not used properly. To ensure clarity and efficiency, it’s important to set expectations with stakeholders about how and when to use messaging apps. This could include establishing the purpose and scope of each channel or group, agreeing on response times and availability, defining the tone and etiquette of communication, as well as using appropriate notifications and settings to manage attention and priorities.

3 Be responsive and respectful

Messaging apps can be incredibly beneficial for connecting with stakeholders in real-time. This increases trust, rapport, and engagement. To make the most of this platform, you should be responsive and respectful. Acknowledge messages quickly, provide clear and concise information and feedback, ask relevant and respectful questions, listen actively, and express appreciation for your stakeholders' contributions. Doing this will help you build strong relationships with your stakeholders.

4 Balance synchronous and asynchronous communication

Messaging apps can be beneficial for synchronous communication, which is when you and your stakeholders are online and interacting at the same time. This can be effective for urgent, complex, or sensitive matters that require immediate attention and feedback. However, overusing synchronous communication can be disruptive, demanding, and stressful. Therefore, it is important to balance synchronous and asynchronous communication, which is when you and your stakeholders are online and interacting at different times. Asynchronous communication can be useful for routine, simple, or non-urgent matters that allow more flexibility and autonomy. To make the most of messaging apps, you should consider using them for synchronous communication when quick decisions or problem solving is needed; use email or other platforms for asynchronous communication when sharing documents or updates; respect your stakeholders' preferences and schedules; and switch to a different mode of communication if the messaging app is not effective or appropriate.