WK3: Communication Skills for Digital Professionals (Afternoon)

• Professional Practice in the Digital Economy
• Higher Education (degree)

Welcome to Week 3

Communication Skills for Digital Professionals

Module Lecturer: Dr Raghav Kovvuri

Email: [e-mail]

Session Overview

• Communication in Digital Environments: Explore how digital communication differs from traditional forms due to remote or hybrid setups.
• Verbal and Non-Verbal Skills: Importance of tone, clarity, and body language in virtual interactions.
• Technical Communication: Discuss breaking down complex ideas for different audiences.
• Inclusive Communication Principles: Emphasise accessibility, cultural awareness, and language sensitivity.

Digital Communication

• Email Etiquette: Writing clear, concise, and professional emails.
• Video Conferencing: Using tools like Zoom and MS Teams effectively.
• Instant Messaging: Balancing speed and professionalism on platforms like Slack.
• Social Media: Crafting professional posts for platforms like LinkedIn.
• Collaboration Platforms: Using tools like Trello or Google Workspace for efficient team communication.

Digital Communication Channels

Verbal Communication Skills

• Clear Articulation: Speaking clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
• Voice Tone and Pace: Maintaining an engaging and professional tone.
• Virtual Presentation Skills: Tips for delivering impactful presentations remotely.
• Technical Explanations: Adapting complexity based on the audience.
• Active Listening: Listening attentively and responding appropriately.

Non-Verbal Communication

• Body Language in Video Calls: Maintaining eye contact and appropriate gestures.
• Digital Presence: Creating a professional online persona.
• Visual Cues: Using nods and smiles to convey engagement.
• Virtual Meeting Etiquette: Muting/unmuting, avoiding distractions, and dressing appropriately.
• Professional Appearance: Ensuring a polished look on camera. 

Technical Communication

• Explaining Complex Concepts: Simplifying jargon for non-technical audiences.
• Documentation Writing: Structuring user guides and technical specifications.
• Process Descriptions: Clearly outlining workflows and procedures.
• User Guides and Manuals: Ensuring clarity and usability.

Writing w r t Audience

• Technical vs. Non-Technical: Tailoring content for diverse audiences.
• Stakeholder Communication: Conveying key points to decision-makers.
• Client Correspondence: Maintaining professionalism in external communication.
• Team Updates: Keeping messages clear and concise.
• Management Reporting: Structuring reports for senior leaders.

Presentation Skills

• Virtual Presentations: Tools like PowerPoint and Prezi.
• Slide Design: Keeping visuals clean and engaging.
• Engagement Techniques: Using polls, Q&A, and stories to keep audiences interested.
• Visual Aids: Charts, infographics, and videos.
• Time Management: Sticking to allocated time.

Inclusive Communication

• Accessibility Considerations: Making content accessible for all.
• Cultural Awareness: Avoiding cultural biases and stereotypes.
• Diverse Audiences: Tailoring messages to different demographics.
• Language Sensitivity: Using inclusive and respectful language.
• Universal Design: Creating communication accessible to everyone.

Digital Team Communication

• Remote Collaboration: Overcoming challenges in virtual team settings.
• Team Meetings: Structuring and managing productive virtual meetings.
• Project Updates: Communicating progress effectively.
• Conflict Resolution: Handling disagreements respectfully.
• Feedback Delivery: Providing constructive feedback.

Digital Tools for Communication

• Collaboration Software: Trello, Slack, MS Teams.
• Communication Platforms: Zoom, Google Meet.
• Project Management Tools: Asana, Monday.com.
• Document Sharing: Google Drive, Dropbox.
• Virtual Whiteboards: Miro, Jamboard.

Communication Strategy

• Planning Communication: Aligning messages with objectives.
• Choosing Channels: Matching communication channels to the purpose.
• Message Crafting: Structuring concise and clear messages.
• Timing Considerations: Sending messages at the right time.
• Follow-Up Methods: Ensuring action items are addressed.

Common Challenges

• Technology Issues: Navigating poor connectivity and software glitches.
• Cultural Differences: Managing varying communication norms.
• Time Zones: Coordinating across global teams.
• Language Barriers: Simplifying language for diverse audiences.
• Information Overload: Streamlining messages to avoid overwhelm.

 Best Practices

• Clear Messaging: Avoid ambiguity.
• Regular Updates: Keep stakeholders informed.
• Response Times: Prioritize timely replies.
• File Sharing Protocols: Ensure security and accessibility.
• Meeting Management: Stick to agendas and respect time.

Discussion Activity

Each of you selects one scenario, writes an email that adheres to proper email etiquette, and submits it to the Canvas discussion page.

Email Scenario's:

1. Scenario 1: Requesting Feedback from a Manager
2. Scenario 2: Responding to a Client Inquiry
3. Scenario 3: Following Up on a Job Application
4. Scenario 4: Apologizing for a Missed Deadline
5. Scenario 5: Scheduling a Virtual Meeting
6. Scenario 6: Requesting Assistance from a Peer

 Session Wrap-Up

Key Takeaways:

• Effective communication is the backbone of digital professionalism.
• Tailor communication to your audience, context, and channel.
• Master verbal, non-verbal, and written communication skills for impactful interactions.
• Overcome challenges like cultural differences and information overload with strategies and tools.
• Commit to inclusivity and accessibility in all forms of communication.

Action Planning:

• Set personal goals to improve digital communication skills.
• Identify areas of strength and improvement using today’s learnings.
• Practice using tools and strategies discussed during the session.

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