44 Chapter 2 Skills for Career Success
•
Give your name and telephone number.
•
Keep your message brief (30 seconds is ideal), but explain the reason
for your call.
•
Minimize the need for a call back if possible. For instance, if a
meeting date has changed, give the date for the postponed meeting.
•
Give the date and time.
•
Let the person know the best time to reach you.
Computers
The Internet is an international network of computers that are
linked to share information. It is available to anyone who has a computer
or Internet-capable device and a means of connection.
The Internet allows instant communication to anywhere in the
world through e-mail. E-mail is an important method of communication
in the workplace. It often replaces in-house offi ce memos or written
correspondence to customers or clients.
Video conferencing uses a webcam to transmit video and sound
over the Internet. Extended family members who live distances apart
have found video conferencing to be an excellent way to stay in
touch. Workplaces use video conferencing to conduct meetings and
communicate with distance employees.
Though access to the Internet can lead you to vast amounts of
information, there are some precautions. The Internet is not owned
or controlled by any one organization. Anyone can place any type of
information on the Internet, whether accurate or not. Therefore, if you
are using it for research, you should focus on using reliable sources.
Check the accuracy of information provided by unfamiliar sources.
The government currently does not regulate the Internet, and little
information is censored. Children can accidentally wander into sites that
are meant for adults only.
Reading
Review
1. Name two barriers to good listening skills.
2. True or false. People are more likely to remember a message they
hear if they do not repeat it verbally.
3. Briefl y describe fi ve techniques for improving speaking skills.
4. List four suggestions for starting a conversation.
5. Explain how nonverbal communication is related to your appearance.
6. List three electronic means of communication. Give an example of
how each can be used to benefi t communication.
R R R
1 1 N t
Analyze
and
Solve
With a team of classmates,
discuss the following ques-
tions. What are the advan-
tages and disadvantages
of text messaging? In what
situations can text messaging
be disruptive? In what ways
does text messaging enhance
or hinder communication?
Living
Green
Many electronics contain
hazardous material that can
harm the environment if it
enters the waste stream.
When purchasing new
electronic communication
devices, make sure you
recycle your old products.
The Environmental Protection
Agency provides information
on recycling electronics at
www.epa.gov.