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When to Send an Instant Message, When to Talk in Person

In an office setting there are times when you can get away with instant messaging and times when you need to talk in person. The question is: how do you decide when to IM and when to meet somebody face to face? This is not always an easy question to answer, but the information below should definitely help.

When to use Instant Messaging

1. When you want to be quick. If you need to send a quick message and receive a timely response you should send an instant message. This is much faster than leaving your desk to hunt somebody down.

2. When you don’t want others around. Do you want everybody to hear what you are saying? If not, you can send an instant message to keep alert ears on the outside.

3. When you cannot wait any longer. There may come a time when you need an answer right away, and you don’t want to wait. With an instant message you can have the information you need within a matter of seconds. It doesn’t get much quicker than that. Why wait if you don’t have to? 

In Person

1. When it is very important. There are some conversations that shouldn’t take place via an instant messaging program. For instance, if you need to discuss losing a big client it is always better to do so in person.

2. When it could be a long conversation. As you know it can be difficult to carry out a long, detailed conversation via instant messenger. If you are expecting a long conversation it is time for a face to face meeting.

3. When you need to include others. Sure, you could opt for an instant messaging chat but in many cases if others need to be included it is better to meet in a conference room.

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