Watch a video and see examples of work emails and social texts. See how the 7 Cs of communication can help you in times of fun or work.
Communication is a Young Professional skill that’s a powerful mix of how you present yourself, how you influence other people, and how you share information and ideas with them. It will get you far in life… but it’s like a muscle you have to train.
Getting your point across clearly helps with doing job interviews, sending work emails and even texting friends and family. Have you ever rushed a text, leading to awkward situations and misunderstandings? With the 7 Cs of communication your messages will be as clear as day!
What are the 7 Cs of communication?
Send texts and emails that make total sense to whoever gets them. The 7 Cs are useful in the world of work – and even when you’re trying to arrange meetups with friends.
Clarity
Keep your message simple. Be clear. Making things too complicated can mean people miss part of your message or misunderstand it!
Concise
Keep the message short. Having lots to read or listen to can mean people lose track of the message you are trying to give.
Correct
As well as making sure what you are saying is true, check your spelling and grammar and tone.
Complete
Make sure all your sentences and points are complete. Does your message contain all the information needed?
Consideration
Ensure you have given full consideration to the audience who will be receiving your message. Is there anything extra they might need?
Concrete
Be specific. Give a clear idea of what you want the next action to be.
Courtesy
Be respectful and polite!
EXAMPLE TEXT TO FRIEND
Hi, how’s it going? (COURTESY – start off thinking of them, not yourself)
Be great to see you soon. (CLARITY and CONCISE – in one short sentence they know the point of your message, which is to meet up soon)
Are you free Sat? The new Dwayne Johnson film is on in the local cinema, I was thinking of the 6pm showing. (CORRECT, COMPLETE and CONSIDERATE – you have given accurate details and times of the film)
Do you want to come see it with me? If Sat is a problem, want to go on Sun instead? (CONCRETE – you’ve been clear about what you want the next action to be).
EXAMPLE TEXT TO SOMEONE AT WORK
Hi Louise, (COURTESY and CORRECT – you got their name right. Spelling someone’s correct name is really important, they will get annoyed if you don’t. It is usually fine to say ‘hi’ in work emails to someone you work with, but ‘hey’ is going too far – especially if it’s an email to the boss!)
Hope you had a good weekend. (COURTESY – you’ve shown you are thinking of them)
I have finished the report you wanted on Monday. It is now ready for review. (CLARITY AND CONCISE – people at work, especially bosses, might have to read a million emails a day. But you’ve told them clearly and briefly why you’re getting in touch.)
Please find it attached to this email. (CORRECT AND COMPLETE – you will be forgiven if you forget to attach something to an email. Everyone makes mistakes now and then. But it’s a gold star for you if you make sure you have attached the correct attachment and you have checked it through before sending)
Please let me know if you need any changes made, or if you’re happy for me to send it to the client. (CONCRETE – you’ve been clear about what you want the next action to be)
With thanks, (COURTESY – a fairly standard work sign-off. ‘Love and kisses’ or ‘YOLO’ is going to raise some eyebrows…)
Gemma
See more on Youth Employment UK about communication skills.
