So here
we are in 2016. Like so many New Years, it seems to have come round in an
instant.
Speaking
of instant, I think immediacy will be something of theme for the way we
communicate this year, and beyond.
Messaging
apps like WhatsApp and Facebook’s Messenger are changing the way we connect. Not
only socially, but in business, too. As if to confirm this, Twitter lifted the
140 character limit on its direct message facility last year.
Simple to
use, available across multiple platforms and free of charge, these apps are
overtaking email as the go to channel for realtime communications.
Not only
do they let you ping images, video and text, they let you share links to
content directly from webpages. You can see when specific people are online and
available and, thanks to voice over IP (VoIP), you can have good old telephone
conversations with them, too.
Such is
the reach of social media now that a complete stranger on the other side of the
planet can become your technical support hero, newest client or forum buddy
within minutes.
This is
great for building networks, winning new business, supporting clients and
sharing ideas. And, remember, it’s not just about you doing all the talking.
It’s your opportunity to listen, too. To take the temperature out there, find
out what people really want and be alert to buying signals and new business
opportunities.
These
days, I learn so much by following links on social media, They take me to news
and analysis in both new and traditional media, including the websites of
respected magazines and newspapers. It also means I’m on top of the
stories and issues that really interest
people. It’s quick, it’s easy and it’s all there in a single device.
A smart
phone, for instance.
