Module 4/4 20 min
Instant messages, and the final test
Step 1 / 2·Chat is not a short email
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Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Apply the rules specific to chat channels
- Choose the right channel for each kind of content
- Complete the final test
Learn ~8 min
Chat is not a short email
Use each channel for what it is good at.
Four rules for chat
| Rule | Why |
|---|---|
| Put the whole thought in one message, not six in a row | Every message is another alarm on the recipient's device |
| Do not send 'hi' and wait for a reply before saying what you want | The recipient waits without knowing what for; say the thing in the first message |
| Decisions made in chat must be confirmed in writing | Chat scrolls away fast and nobody can find it three weeks later |
| Anything needing thought goes by email, not chat | Chat creates pressure to answer immediately, which produces rushed answers |
Close a chat decision with a summary message
After a long chat exchange, send a final message: 'To confirm: we're going with option B, Nam takes the technical part, done by Friday.' It takes thirty seconds and prevents a later argument.