What Is Electronic Communication

Definition of Electronic Communication

Electronic communication refers to the exchange of information, messages, or data through electronic devices such as computers, smartphones, tablets, and other digital platforms. It enables individuals, businesses, and organizations to connect, share ideas, collaborate, and communicate effectively, regardless of geographical distances.

The advent of electronic communication has revolutionized the way we interact and communicate with others. It has transformed traditional modes of communication, such as mail, telephone calls, and face-to-face meetings, into more efficient and instant processes.

Electronic communication encompasses various methods, including email, instant messaging, video conferencing, and social media platforms, which have become integral parts of both personal and professional communication today.

Unlike traditional forms of communication, electronic communication allows for real-time dialogue and asynchronous communication, enabling individuals to send and receive messages at their convenience. It has broken down barriers and created a global village, connecting people from different corners of the world and fostering collaboration on an unprecedented scale.

Moreover, electronic communication has transcended the barriers of distance and time zones. With just a few clicks, one can connect with someone halfway across the globe, making it a vital tool for businesses with international operations and remote workforce.

In addition, electronic communication has simplified the sharing of information and documents. Instead of relying on physical copies or cumbersome mail services, electronic communication enables the instantaneous exchange of files, allowing for seamless collaboration and increased productivity.

Furthermore, electronic communication has played a pivotal role in the advancement of e-commerce, enabling businesses to connect with customers, market their products, and provide support online. It has reshaped the way we shop, conduct business transactions, and access goods and services.

Evolution of Electronic Communication

The evolution of electronic communication can be traced back to the invention of the telegraph in the early 19th century. This revolutionary device allowed messages to be transmitted over long distances via electrical signals. However, it was the development of the internet in the late 20th century that truly revolutionized electronic communication.

In the 1960s, the U.S. Department of Defense’s Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) created the precursor to the internet, known as ARPANET. Initially designed to facilitate communication between computers and researchers, ARPANET laid the foundation for what would become the modern internet.

By the 1990s, the internet had become more widely accessible to the public, leading to the emergence of email as a primary means of electronic communication. Email allowed individuals to send messages electronically, eliminating the need for physical mail delivery. It offered a faster and more convenient way to communicate, paving the way for increased connectivity on a global scale.

Soon after, instant messaging platforms entered the scene, enabling real-time conversations between individuals. These platforms quickly gained popularity, especially among the younger generation, as they provided an efficient and interactive way to connect with others.

The advancement of technology also brought about video conferencing, which revolutionized remote communication. With video conferencing software and applications, individuals and businesses could conduct meetings, interviews, and presentations, regardless of their physical locations. This technology bridged the gap between face-to-face and virtual interactions, making collaboration more seamless and efficient.

Another significant milestone in the evolution of electronic communication is the rise of social media platforms. Social media not only allows individuals to connect and share their thoughts, photos, and videos, but it has also become a powerful tool for businesses to interact with customers, market their products, and gather insights.

Looking ahead, the evolution of electronic communication continues with advancements in technology. Artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality are transforming the way we communicate and interact with each other. These technologies offer immersive experiences and facilitate more natural and intuitive communication.

Types of Electronic Communication

Electronic communication encompasses a wide range of methods that facilitate the exchange of information and messages. Let’s explore some of the most common types:

Email: Email, short for electronic mail, is one of the oldest and widely used forms of electronic communication. It allows individuals to send and receive messages, documents, and files electronically. Email offers the advantage of asynchronous communication, allowing users to respond at their convenience.
Instant Messaging: Instant messaging platforms, such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Slack, enable real-time conversations between users. These platforms support text, voice, and video communication, making it easy for individuals and teams to quickly connect and collaborate.
Video Conferencing: Video conferencing enables individuals or groups to have face-to-face meetings, presentations, or discussions through video and audio connections. Applications like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet have become increasingly popular, particularly for remote work and distance learning.
Social Media Communication: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn allow individuals and businesses to connect, share updates, and engage in conversations. Social media communication enables instant interaction, making it a powerful tool for networking, marketing, and maintaining relationships.
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): VoIP technology allows voice calls to be transmitted over the internet, eliminating the need for traditional phone lines. Services like Skype and WhatsApp Call utilize VoIP, providing an effective and cost-efficient means of communication.

These are just a few examples of electronic communication methods, but advancements in technology continue to introduce new ways to connect and collaborate electronically. It is crucial to choose the appropriate method based on the nature of the communication, the intended audience, and the desired level of interaction.

Benefits of Electronic Communication

Electronic communication offers numerous benefits that have transformed the way we interact and conduct business. Here are some of the key advantages:

Instantaneous Communication: Electronic communication enables real-time exchange of information, allowing individuals and businesses to communicate instantly. Messages can be sent and received, documents can be shared, and decisions can be made in a matter of seconds, regardless of geographic distances.
Convenient and Flexible: With electronic communication, there are no time or location barriers. Individuals can communicate and collaborate at their own convenience, whether it’s during work hours, while traveling, or from the comfort of their homes. This flexibility enhances productivity and work-life balance.
Cost Savings: Electronic communication eliminates the need for physical mail, postage, and international phone calls, resulting in significant cost savings for individuals and businesses. It also reduces travel expenses by enabling virtual meetings and conferences, making it an eco-friendly alternative.
Increased Efficiency: The speed and efficiency of electronic communication enhance productivity and workflow. Messages, documents, and information can be organized, stored, and easily retrieved, facilitating seamless collaboration and decision-making.
Expanded Reach: Electronic communication breaks down geographic barriers, allowing businesses and individuals to connect with a global audience. It provides opportunities for networking, collaboration, and expanding customer bases, irrespective of physical location.
Increased Connectivity: Electronic communication fosters connectivity and strengthens relationships. Social media platforms and instant messaging enable individuals to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues, bridging gaps and maintaining relationships even at a distance.
Accessible Information: Electronic communication enables easy access to a wealth of information and resources. Whether it’s through email attachments, shared documents, or online resources, individuals can quickly retrieve and reference information, enhancing knowledge sharing and decision-making.

These benefits highlight the transformative power of electronic communication in facilitating efficient, cost-effective, and interconnected communication. However, it is important to strike a balance by using electronic communication responsibly and ensuring the ongoing development of interpersonal skills and face-to-face interactions.

Challenges of Electronic Communication

While electronic communication offers numerous advantages, it is not without its challenges. It is important to be aware of these challenges to mitigate potential issues. Let’s explore some of the common challenges:

Technical Issues: Electronic communication heavily relies on technology, and technical issues can occur. Internet outages, server crashes, software glitches, or compatibility problems can disrupt communication, causing delays and frustration.
Security Risks: With electronic communication, there is a greater risk of unauthorized access or data breaches. Phishing attacks, malware, and hacking attempts can compromise sensitive information, leading to identity theft, financial loss, or reputational damage.
Misinterpretation: Unlike face-to-face communication, electronic communication lacks non-verbal cues such as body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. This can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations of intent, resulting in ineffective communication or conflicts.
Information Overload: The constant influx of emails, messages, notifications, and updates can lead to information overload. It can be overwhelming and challenging to filter through the volume of information, leading to decreased productivity and difficulty in prioritizing.
Lack of Personal Connection: Electronic communication can feel impersonal compared to face-to-face interactions. It may be challenging to establish trust, build rapport, or convey emotions effectively, potentially hindering relationship development and team dynamics.
Distractions and Time Management: Electronic communication can be a source of distractions, impacting focus and productivity. Constant notifications, irrelevant messages, and the temptation to multitask can hinder effective communication and time management.
Legal and Ethical Concerns: Electronic communication raises legal and ethical concerns related to privacy, data protection, intellectual property rights, and compliance with regulations. Organizations and individuals must navigate these challenges to ensure legal and ethical use of electronic communication.

Addressing these challenges requires awareness, proactive measures, and effective communication etiquette. It is important to prioritize security, use strong passwords, employ encryption methods, be diligent in verifying sources, and maintain open channels for feedback and clarification to mitigate these challenges.

Tips for Effective Electronic Communication

To make the most out of electronic communication, it is important to utilize some best practices for effective communication. Here are some tips to enhance your electronic communication skills:

Be Clear and Concise: Write clear and concise messages to ensure your intended meaning is understood. Keep your sentences and paragraphs brief, use bullet points or numbered lists when appropriate, and avoid unnecessary jargon or technical terms.
Use Proper Etiquette: Follow proper email and messaging etiquette by using greetings, appropriate tone, and formal language when required. Address recipients by their names, proofread your messages for errors, and use polite and professional language throughout.
Choose the Right Medium: Consider the nature of your message and choose the appropriate medium for communication. For quick questions or updates, instant messaging may be suitable, while important discussions or detailed information may require email or video conferencing.
Practice Active Listening: When engaging in electronic communication, be attentive and practice active listening. Read and understand others’ messages thoroughly before responding. Respond to the points raised and ask for clarification if needed.
Be Mindful of Tone and Emotions: In the absence of non-verbal cues, it is easy for messages to be misinterpreted. Be conscious of your tone and emotions conveyed in your writing. Use appropriate language and consider how your words may be perceived by the recipient.
Be Respectful of Others’ Time: Respect others’ time by keeping your messages concise, avoiding unnecessary or excessive follow-up emails, and responding promptly to urgent or time-sensitive matters. Use clear subject lines and organize your emails, making it easier for recipients to prioritize and respond.
Proofread Your Messages: Take a moment to proofread your messages before sending them. Check for spelling, grammatical errors, and clarity. This will help ensure your message is understood as intended and leaves a positive impression.
Use Proper Formatting: Use appropriate formatting in your messages to enhance readability. Utilize headers, bullet points, and paragraphs to structure your content. Be mindful of the font type and size, using a professional and legible format.
Use Encryption and Security Measures: Protect sensitive information by using encryption methods when transmitting sensitive data. Be cautious while clicking on links or opening attachments from unknown sources. Regularly update your passwords and ensure you have reliable security software on your devices.
Follow Company Policies and Guidelines: If you are communicating for business purposes, familiarize yourself with your organization’s communication policies and guidelines. Adhere to the rules, guidelines, and ethical standards set by your company.

By incorporating these tips into your electronic communication practices, you can improve clarity, efficiency, and professionalism in your interactions, leading to better outcomes and stronger relationships.

Email Communication

Email communication is a widely used method of electronic communication that allows for the exchange of messages, files, and documents. It offers numerous benefits and is a primary form of communication in both personal and professional settings. Here are some important aspects to consider for effective email communication:

Subject Line: Begin your email with a clear and concise subject line that accurately summarizes the content of the message. This helps the recipient understand the purpose of the email and prioritize their inbox.
Formalities: Start your email with a polite greeting, such as “Dear [Name],” for professional settings. Use appropriate salutations based on the level of formality and the relationship with the recipient. For casual or personal emails, a simple “Hi [Name],” may suffice.
Clear and Concise Content: Keep your emails focused and to the point. Use clear and concise language to ensure your message is easily understood. Avoid rambling or including unnecessary details that may distract from the main point.
Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone in your email communication, using appropriate language and avoiding overly casual or informal expressions. Consider the recipient and the context of the email when determining the level of formality.
Use Proper Formatting: Format your email for readability by using paragraphs, bullet points, and numbered lists when conveying multiple points or steps. Use a legible font and an appropriate font size to make your email visually appealing and easy to read.
Consider Privacy: Be mindful of privacy when discussing confidential or sensitive information. Avoid sharing personal or sensitive data via email, and if required, use encryption or secure file sharing methods.
Timely Responses: Respond to emails in a timely manner, particularly for time-sensitive or important messages. Even if you need more time to provide a comprehensive response, acknowledge the email and communicate an estimated timeframe for a complete reply.
Professional Email Signature: Include a professional email signature that includes your name, job title, contact information, and any relevant links or branding. This helps recipients easily identify you and provides additional means of contacting you if needed.
Proofreading: Before sending an email, review it for grammar, spelling errors, and clarity. Spelling mistakes or grammatical errors can undermine your professionalism and the credibility of your message.
Attachments: When sending attachments, ensure they are relevant to the email’s content and properly labeled. Compress large files when possible to avoid overwhelming the recipient’s inbox.

Email communication, when used effectively, can expedite information exchange, facilitate collaboration, and enable efficient communication in both personal and professional contexts. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your email communication is clear, professional, and effective.

Instant Messaging

Instant messaging has become an increasingly popular form of electronic communication, providing real-time, text-based conversations between individuals or groups. It offers numerous advantages and is widely used in both personal and professional settings. Here are some key aspects to consider for effective instant messaging:

Choose the Right Platform: Select an instant messaging platform that best suits your needs. Popular options include WhatsApp, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Hangouts. Consider factors such as privacy, security, features, and user-friendliness.
Build Relationships: Instant messaging allows for quick and informal conversations. Use this opportunity to build relationships, foster camaraderie, and strengthen connections with colleagues, team members, or friends.
Relevant and Concise Messages: Keep your instant messages focused and concise. Stick to the main point and avoid long-winded messages that may lead to confusion or misunderstanding. Break complex ideas into easily digestible chunks if necessary.
Prompt Responses: Aim to respond to instant messages in a timely manner. While it may not always be possible to reply immediately, avoiding prolonged delays in responding to important or time-sensitive messages helps maintain effective communication and engagement.
Professionalism: Maintain a professional tone in your instant messaging conversations, especially in a work setting. Avoid using emojis, excessive abbreviations, or informal language that may undermine your professionalism or convey unintended messages.
Clarity and Emoticons: Ensure your messages are clear and easily understandable by using proper grammar and punctuation. If necessary, utilize emoticons or emojis sparingly to add tone or clarify intent, but avoid overusing them or relying on them to convey complex emotions.
Mindful of Etiquette: Be courteous and respectful in your instant messaging. Avoid interrupting ongoing conversations, refrain from typing in all capital letters (which signifies shouting), and adhere to any specific etiquette guidelines established within your organization or group.
Embrace Collaboration Features: Many instant messaging platforms offer features that facilitate collaboration, such as file sharing, screen sharing, and video calls. Utilize these features to enhance productivity and teamwork.
Consider Time Zones: If communicating with individuals in different time zones, be mindful of their working hours and communicate accordingly. Avoid sending non-urgent messages during their off-hours to respect their personal time.
Status Updates: Use status updates or away messages to inform others of your availability or unavailability. This helps manage expectations and prevents unnecessary interruptions.

Instant messaging offers the advantage of quick and efficient communication. By following these guidelines, you can enhance your instant messaging experience, facilitate effective conversations, and build stronger relationships with your contacts.

Video Conferencing

Video conferencing has revolutionized electronic communication by providing a platform for face-to-face interactions regardless of geographical barriers. It enables real-time audio and video communication, making it a valuable tool for both personal and professional purposes. Here are some key considerations for effective video conferencing:

Choose the Right Platform: Select a reliable and user-friendly video conferencing platform that suits your needs. Popular options include Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Cisco Webex. Consider factors such as the number of participants allowed, features offered, and ease of use.
Test Technology and Equipment: Prior to any scheduled video conference, test your equipment, including your camera, microphone, and speakers. Check your internet connection to ensure smooth and uninterrupted communication during the meeting.
Prepare the Environment: Choose a quiet and well-lit location for your video conference. Minimize distractions and ensure that your background is professional and not cluttered. Consider using virtual backgrounds when appropriate.
Dress Professionally: Dress appropriately for the video conference, considering the formality of the meeting. Choose attire that is professional and presentable, as it helps create a positive impression and conveys respect for the participants.
Be Punctual: Join the video conference on time and encourage other participants to do the same. Being punctual demonstrates professionalism and respect for others’ time.
Engage in Active Listening: As with any form of communication, active listening is crucial. Pay attention to the speakers, avoid interruptions, and nod or use visual cues to indicate your engagement and understanding.
Speak Clearly and Concisely: Make sure to speak clearly and at an appropriate volume. Avoid mumbling or speaking too fast. Keep your responses concise to allow all participants an opportunity to contribute.
Utilize Visual Aids: Share relevant visual aids, such as presentation slides or documents, to support your discussion. Ensure that the materials are clear and easy to read for all participants.
Respectful Communication: Foster a respectful and inclusive environment during the video conference. Allow everyone the opportunity to speak and actively listen to diverse perspectives. Be mindful of interrupting others and use appropriate language and tone.
Follow Meeting Etiquette: Adhere to meeting etiquette by muting your microphone when not speaking to minimize background noise. Avoid multitasking or engaging in distracting activities during the conference. Maintain a professional demeanor throughout.
Wrap up and Summarize: Before concluding the video conference, summarize the key points discussed and any actionable items identified. Clarify any outstanding questions or concerns and establish expectations for follow-up communication or next steps.

Video conferencing provides the benefits of face-to-face interaction without the need for physical presence. By following these guidelines, you can ensure effective, professional, and engaging video conferences that foster collaboration and meaningful communication.

Social Media Communication

Social media platforms have transformed electronic communication by providing interactive and engaging channels for individuals, businesses, and organizations to connect and share information. Social media communication enables real-time interactions, fosters relationships, and facilitates information dissemination. Here are some key considerations for effective social media communication:

Choose the Right Platforms: Identify the social media platforms that align with your goals and target audience. Popular options include Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube. Each platform has its own unique features, demographics, and communication style.
Define Your Purpose: Determine the purpose and objectives of your social media communication. Are you seeking to engage with customers, establish thought leadership, or promote a product or service? Having a clear purpose guides your content creation and engagement strategies.
Know Your Audience: Understand your target audience’s preferences and interests. Tailor your content to resonate with them, using a tone and style appropriate for the platform. Engage with your audience by responding to comments, messages, and mentions promptly and in a friendly manner.
Create Compelling Content: Develop content that is valuable, relevant, and visually appealing. Use a mix of formats such as text, images, videos, and infographics to keep your content diverse and engaging. Focus on storytelling, providing insights, and encouraging conversations.
Encourage Engagement: Foster engagement with your audience by asking questions, running contests, or soliciting feedback. Respond to comments and messages, and actively participate in relevant conversations. Encourage followers to share your content and tag others to expand your reach.
Monitor and Measure: Regularly monitor your social media channels for mentions, comments, and messages. Utilize analytics tools to measure the impact of your social media efforts. Adjust your strategy based on insights gained from the data to optimize your communication approach.
Engage in Social Listening: Listen and monitor conversations happening on social media related to your industry, brand, or products. This can provide valuable insights about customer sentiment, trends, and opportunities to join relevant discussions.
Be Authentic and Transparent: Transparency and authenticity are key in social media communication. Be honest, admit mistakes when necessary, and respond genuinely to feedback or criticism. This builds trust and credibility with your audience.
Balance Promotion and Value: While it is important to promote your products or services, avoid being overly promotional. Provide value to your audience by sharing educational content, industry insights, and helpful tips. Build relationships before expecting conversions.
Stay Active and Consistent: Consistency is crucial on social media. Regularly post content, respond to comments, and engage with your audience. Develop a content calendar and schedule posts in advance to maintain a consistent presence.

Social media communication offers a dynamic and interactive platform to connect, engage, and build relationships. By implementing these best practices, you can effectively leverage social media to achieve your communication objectives and connect with your audience on a meaningful level.

Tools for Electronic Communication

In the digital age, numerous tools and technologies have emerged to facilitate effective electronic communication. These tools offer a wide range of features and functionalities, enabling individuals and organizations to connect, collaborate, and communicate seamlessly. Here are some essential tools used for electronic communication:

Email Clients: Email clients, such as Microsoft Outlook, Gmail, and Apple Mail, provide a user-friendly interface and robust features for sending, receiving, and managing email communication. They often offer additional features like filtering, categorizing, and organizing emails.
Instant Messaging Applications: Instant messaging applications, including WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Slack, allow real-time text, voice, and video communication. These platforms enable instant connections and facilitate quick collaboration, both in personal and professional settings.
Video Conferencing Software: Video conferencing software, such as Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, enables virtual meetings and conferences with high-quality audio and video capabilities. These tools have become invaluable for remote work, distance learning, and global collaborations.
Collaboration Tools: Collaboration tools like Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), Microsoft 365, and Trello provide functionalities for document sharing, real-time editing, task management, and team collaboration. These tools enhance productivity by enabling seamless collaboration and efficient communication within teams.
Social Media Platforms: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram have become powerful tools for communication, marketing, and networking. These platforms enable individuals and businesses to connect, share information, engage with their audience, and build communities.
Virtual Meeting and Webinar Platforms: Virtual meeting and webinar platforms, such as GoToMeeting, Cisco Webex, and Adobe Connect, offer features for hosting online presentations, trainings, and large-scale virtual events. These tools provide interactive features like screen sharing, Q&A sessions, and chat functionalities.
File Sharing and Cloud Storage: File sharing and cloud storage solutions such as Google Drive, Dropbox, and OneDrive allow for seamless and secure sharing, storing, and accessing of files and documents. These tools enable easy collaboration, version control, and remote access to files.
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: CRM software like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho CRM facilitate effective communication and management of customer information. These platforms centralize customer data, enabling businesses to track interactions, manage leads, and enhance customer engagement.
Scheduling and Calendar Tools: Scheduling and calendar tools, such as Google Calendar, Microsoft Outlook Calendar, and Calendly, help coordinate meetings and schedule appointments. These tools streamline the process of finding mutually convenient meeting times, reducing back-and-forth communication.
Mobile Applications: Mobile applications for communication, such as WhatsApp, Skype, and Slack, allow individuals to stay connected on-the-go and access communication tools from their smartphones or tablets. These apps provide flexibility and convenience, enabling communication anytime, anywhere.

These tools for electronic communication have become essential in today’s digital landscape, enabling individuals, businesses, and organizations to connect, collaborate, and communicate efficiently. Choosing the appropriate tools based on specific needs and requirements is crucial for effective digital communication.

Future of Electronic Communication

As technology continues to advance at a rapid pace, the future of electronic communication holds exciting possibilities for how we connect and interact with one another. Here are some key trends and innovations shaping the future of electronic communication:

Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is revolutionizing electronic communication by providing smart chatbots, language translation services, and voice recognition for improved customer service and seamless communication across language barriers. AI-powered virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant are becoming more sophisticated, offering personalized and interactive experiences.
Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR): VR and AR technologies are transforming the way we communicate by creating immersive experiences. Virtual meetings, training sessions, and collaboration will become more vivid and realistic, enabling remote participants to feel as if they are physically present in the same space. AR-enhanced communication will provide real-time information overlays and visual aids, enhancing interactions and productivity.
Internet of Things (IoT): The proliferation of IoT devices will enable interconnected communication between devices, creating a network of smart devices that can seamlessly exchange information. IoT-powered communication will facilitate automation, smart homes, and connected workplaces, allowing for more efficient and intelligent communication and collaboration.
5G Connectivity: The widespread adoption of 5G technology will revolutionize electronic communication by providing faster, more reliable, and low-latency connections. This technology will support high-quality video conferencing, seamless streaming, and real-time collaboration, enabling more immersive and efficient communication experiences.
Big Data Analytics: The future of electronic communication will heavily rely on big data analytics to analyze and interpret massive amounts of data. This will enable businesses and individuals to gain valuable insights into communication patterns, customer behavior, and preferences. Data-driven communication strategies will optimize engagement and personalized experiences.
Blockchain Technology: Blockchain technology holds the potential to enhance the security, privacy, and transparency of electronic communication. It can enable secure peer-to-peer communication, decentralized messaging platforms, and encrypted messaging for confidential and tamper-proof communication.
Social Media Evolution: Social media platforms will continue to evolve, offering more advanced features for communication, content creation, and community engagement. Live streaming, ephemeral content, and interactive storytelling will become more prevalent, enabling more immersive and interactive communication experiences.
Mobile and Wearable Technology: The increasing use of mobile devices and wearable technology will further enhance electronic communication. As smartphones and wearable devices become more sophisticated, they will provide seamless integration with communication tools and enable more convenient, on-the-go communication experiences.

The future of electronic communication holds immense potential for transforming the way we connect, collaborate, and communicate. As these technologies and trends continue to advance, it is crucial for individuals and organizations to embrace them and adapt their communication strategies to leverage the opportunities they bring.