Daily Buzz: The Right Way to Use Online Collaboration Tools

With the rise of workplace messaging apps like Slack and Microsoft Teams, today’s workers are doing much of their collaborating online. But since they’re relatively new, proper etiquette on these platforms may be a little fuzzy.

“Do you text your boss like you would your friends, or are you supposed to be strictly professional?” asks Allana Akhtar on Business Insider  (opens in a new tab). To answer such questions, Akhtar consulted with experts about the right ways to communicate when using online collaboration tools.

Group messaging apps provide a great opportunity to compliment coworkers and share their achievements with the rest of the team, Akhtar suggests. Not only will this boost morale, but you’ll probably get recognition from higher-ups.

“These spaces allow low-level to senior execs to collaborate—meaning if you highlight an accomplishment, management will take note,” Akhtar says.

In your messages, stay away from slang and acronyms. Common acronyms contain swear words, and some slang terms might be too new or specific to your region for others to understand. Also, avoid bombarding coworkers with an endless stream of notifications.

“While collaboration can make for creative ideas, too much interaction can keep you from actually working,” Akhtar says. Instead of sending five short messages, consolidate your point into one message to limit disruptions.

Standing out on Instagram

For breakout success in 2020, you’ll need to keep up with the latest trends and make full use of what Instagram has to offer. https://t.co/k8g2bUTK6O  (opens in a new tab)

— Hootsuite 🦉 (@hootsuite) February 28, 2020  (opens in a new tab)

Instagram is a great place to showcase your brand and its personality. But to be successful, you need to find ways to separate yourself from the competition.

“Generic won’t cut it on this platform. If your presence is lacking, you’ll forfeit opportunities to connect—and lose out to other brands,” says Becky Tumidolsky on the Hootsuite blog  (opens in a new tab).

One way to stand out is to spruce up your Instagram bio. A good bio quickly captures the essence of your brand, what you offer, and why you’re different. It’s also an ideal spot to draw in users with promotions and contests. And with a verified badge next to your name, your bio also boosts credibility.

Other Links of Note

Want recognition at your new job? Lifehacker shares advice from career experts  (opens in a new tab) on how to get noticed.

If you want to get some actual work done on your phone, download one of these office apps  (opens in a new tab), suggests Gizmodo’s David Nield.

None of us can do it alone. A recent post from Association Chat breaks down how to find the right people  (opens in a new tab) for your support team.

(lvcandy/DigitalVision Vectors)