You want to impress your boss with your communication skills. What's the best way to start?

3 Choose your channel

Depending on the situation, you might have different options for communicating with your boss. You could use email, phone, video call, chat, or even social media. Each channel has its own advantages and disadvantages, and you need to choose the one that best suits your message, your audience, and your context. For example, email is good for formal and written communication, but it can be slow and impersonal. Phone is good for quick and verbal communication, but it can be interrupted or misunderstood. Video call is good for visual and interactive communication, but it can be affected by technical issues or distractions. Chat is good for informal and instant communication, but it can be noisy and unprofessional. Social media is good for casual and personal communication, but it can be risky and inappropriate. Consider the pros and cons of each channel, and use the one that matches your communication goals and expectations.

4 Deliver your message

After you have chosen your channel, you need to deliver your message. This is where you need to pay attention to your tone, style, and etiquette. Whether you are writing or speaking, you need to be clear, concise, and courteous. Use simple and direct language, avoid errors and typos, and check your grammar and spelling. Be respectful and polite, use appropriate greetings and salutations, and thank your boss for their time and attention. Be confident and assertive, but not arrogant or aggressive. Be honest and transparent, but not rude or negative. Be professional and consistent, but not boring or robotic. Be yourself, but not too casual or familiar.

5 Follow up your message

Finally, after you have delivered your message, you need to follow up your message. This means that you need to monitor and respond to any feedback, questions, or comments that your boss might have. You also need to keep track of any actions, deadlines, or outcomes that result from your communication. Follow up your message promptly and politely, and show your interest and commitment. Don't leave your boss hanging, or ignore their input. Don't assume that your communication is over, or that your message is clear. Don't forget to acknowledge and appreciate your boss's communication, and to update them on your progress and achievements.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?