Communication Norms
Clear, respectful, and timely communication is essential to how we work—both internally and with clients. These guidelines help ensure we collaborate effectively, stay aligned, and maintain professionalism.
1. Core Principles
- Be clear and concise — get to the point while providing necessary context.
- Be respectful — tone matters, especially in written messages.
- Assume good intent — give colleagues the benefit of the doubt.
- Use the right channel — match the urgency and formality to the tool you choose.
2. Internal Communication
- Slack/Teams: for quick questions, updates, and informal collaboration.
- Email: for formal communication, important announcements, or when detail needs to be preserved.
- Project Management Tools: for task updates, deadlines, and progress tracking.
- Response time expectations:
- Slack/Teams: within 2 working hours during core hours.
- Email: within 24 working hours.
3. External Communication
- Always use professional, client-appropriate language.
- Proofread messages before sending—especially emails to clients.
- Avoid using abbreviations or jargon clients may not understand.
- CC your line manager or account manager on key client updates.
4. Meetings
- Arrive on time (or log in early for virtual meetings).
- Come prepared—review agendas, read materials in advance.
- Keep cameras on for internal and client video calls unless otherwise agreed.
- Respect speaking time and allow space for others to contribute.
5. Feedback & Conflict Resolution
- Give feedback constructively—focus on actions, not individuals.
- Use private channels for sensitive issues.
- If a disagreement arises, address it directly with the person first before escalating.
6. Availability & Status Updates
- Keep your online status updated (Available / In a Meeting / Away).
- Use calendar blocking to signal focus time or unavailability.
- Let your manager and immediate team know if you’ll be offline for an extended period during work hours.