Going to speak to a colleague instead of calling or emailing them
The Basics
Emails can sometimes come across as impersonal; going to see someone in person once in a while will help build up a personal relationship – this is particularly good for colleagues who you don’t deal with face to face very often, or at all - it's always good to put a face to a voice (or an email).
There is no substitute for personal face to face interaction. Studies show that in face to face communication the listener responds to 7% of what is said, 38% to how it’s said (tonality) and a whopping 55% to body language.
So in an email you’re only using 7% of your communication skills and only being 7% as persuasive as you could be.
Common Myths, misconceptions and excuses
- “I don’t have the time" Think smart not hard – a well timed personal visit can work wonders – especially if you require something to be replied to or need a piece of information quickly. If the person you’re visiting has to reply to lots of emails, yours may be way down the list – a friendly hello and a smile can work wonders in getting what you need.
Tips & tricks
- Sensitive or personal information is always best delivered in person. Think about how the recipient of your email could misinterpret it. Ask yourself how you would feel if you received the call or email.
If they’re not there – leave a note – it will show them that you made the effort to see them and you’ll also have increased your daily activity – so it’s not a wasted journey.