What are the most effective mobile communication etiquette and norms for business?

1 Choose the right mode

Not all mobile communication channels are equal, and you should choose the one that suits your purpose, audience, and urgency. For example, if you need to convey a complex or sensitive message, a phone call or a video conference might be more appropriate than a text or an email. If you want to share a quick update or a confirmation, a text or an email might be more efficient and less intrusive than a call. If you are unsure about the preferred mode of communication of your recipient, ask them politely or follow their lead.

2 Respect the time and place

Mobile communication gives you the flexibility to connect with anyone, anywhere, and anytime, but that does not mean you should disregard the time and place of your communication. Before you initiate or respond to a mobile communication, consider the time zone, the working hours, and the availability of your recipient. If you are not sure, ask them for their preferred time and frequency of communication. Also, be mindful of the background noise, the privacy, and the appropriateness of your location. Avoid communicating from noisy, crowded, or unprofessional places, and use headphones, mute, or speaker options as needed.

3 Be clear and concise

Mobile communication can be easily misinterpreted or overlooked, so you should make sure your messages are clear and concise. Use proper grammar, spelling, and punctuation, and avoid slang, jargon, or abbreviations that might confuse or offend your recipient. Use a clear subject line, a polite greeting and closing, and a specific call to action if you expect a response. Keep your messages short and relevant, and use bullet points, lists, or headings to organize your information. Also, use attachments, links, or screenshots only when necessary, and make sure they are compatible and accessible.

4 Follow up and confirm

Mobile communication can also be unreliable or delayed, so you should always follow up and confirm your messages. If you send an important or urgent message, ask for a confirmation or an acknowledgment from your recipient. If you receive a message that requires a response or an action, reply promptly or let your sender know when you will do so. If you miss a call or a message, apologize and explain the reason. If you have a scheduled call or a meeting, send a reminder and a confirmation beforehand, and thank your participant afterwards.