Communication is key in just about every field of business and all industries. Developments in software have enabled businesses to communicate with consumers and staff far more effectively than ever before. Here is a quick look at some modern business communication tools so that you can be certain your business is making the most of it.
SMS Broadcasting
Marketing and customer service teams have used SMS messaging to reach into people’s pockets since around 2005, when Nike launched its first text marketing campaign. Although SMS messaging has been supplemented by internet-based mobile communications applications in recent years, it remains an incredibly effective method of interpersonal communication. Two-way SMS broadcasting software allows companies to distribute text messages and receive feedback from consumers. This can streamline and simplify the customer service and consumer research areas of business. Businesses need to be careful to adhere to national regulations governing the use of SMS messaging, though; SMS messages cannot be sent to consumers if they have not opted in to telephone communications.
File Sharing
File-sharing tools allow for the effective distribution of important digital material. Gone are the days when email attachments were the most common way of a business sharing files among its staff. The mass migration to the cloud has enabled files to be shared more efficiently than ever. When utilizing cloud services to share files businesses need to make sure that they have a comprehensive authentication system in place to prevent sensitive information from being stolen by malicious actors. Files in transit also need to be encrypted so as to prevent man-in-the-middle-type attacks.
Video Conferencing
Video conferencing software is now reaching near ubiquity in business settings. This is for two key reasons: pandemic-prompted remote working and communicative efficiency. The coronavirus pandemic has vastly accelerated the move towards remote and hybrid working systems, as companies need to be able to communicate with staff and partners even if they are not physically present. Efficiency plays a role in video conferencing adoption because the software allows for the instant organization of meetings. Platforms such as Zoom have seen a huge surge in uptake over the last three years. If you had worked in an office before the pandemic, the chances are high that you will have been attending your meetings on a video conferencing platform lately. Working from home is likely to remain common even after the coronavirus pandemic has become a problem of the past.
Social Media
Social media is one of the most important business communication tools. Businesses frequently turn to social media in order to distribute marketing materials to a targeted audience. Social media marketing is also perfect for gathering data on the consumers who interact with a business. Most companies now employ dedicated social media teams that work with strategic marketing planners to create social networking campaigns.
Project Management
Communication during the undertaking of a project has always been one of the keys to success. Project management software makes communications with project staff much easier. It typically takes the form of a multi-pronged communications and record reporting hub focused on a central dashboard for easy use.
