Why IM Over Email is Superior for Business
When most people hear “IM” or Instant Messaging, their mind goes to services like AOL or MSN Instant Messenger. Of course, anyone in business knows that these services are far too insecure and informal for business use, but the convenience they provide can be indispensable. So, what to do?
Thankfully there is a middle ground. By combining the power of IM and email, one can maintain the powerful security of a private corporate email network while gaining the convenience that an IM system can offer.
Just because it is called IM does not mean that people should regress to their old personal instant messaging habits. This time, these messages are in the context of a professional workplace, and employees need to behave appropriately.
That is not to say that every single message sent over an IM over email system needs to read like a form letter, and to be sure that would defeat the purpose, but it is important to refrain from using extensive slang, emoticons or swearing, all of which are typical in the usual IM conversation.
With the ability to quickly send files without writing a lengthy email, and make quick communications about projects to each other, employees can finally enjoy the convenience of IM without having their superiors become scared about security.
graphic courtesy of hisks on stock.xchng
Kelsey Jones
Kelsey is a Search Marketing Specialist, Freelance Writer, and Co-Owner of The Social Robot. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature and Creative Writing. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and doing yoga.
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Posted in: Business & Economy, Security
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Right said! I’ve always favored IM over email and not just because it’s quicker and more effective, but also because in my case it’s an IM software that provides me fresh business. I run a little import/export business and most of my suppliers are in China, where everybody (and I mean everybody!) uses an IM called QQ. Now, there’s a “QQ International” (www.imqq.com) and it has an English to Chinese translation feature and it’s ESSENTIAL for my business. I don’t know how I could live without it.