Since the pandemic and remote jobs, many companies have had to adapt to this new reality and look for resources to help maintain communication even at a distance. There are two types of online communication, and both have their place in the professional world: synchronous and asynchronous communication. 

But what are the advantages and disadvantages of each and which are the most popular tools? 🤔 

Synchronous Communication 

Synchronous communication, in general, is when two or more people share a conversation in real time using an online platform. This type of communication allows for immediate and direct dialogue.  

✔️ Advantages: 

• Immediate and location-independent communication; 

• Facilitates communication and teamwork without the need for a face-to-face meeting; 

• Allows to resolve more urgent issues. 

❌ Disadvantages: 

• Requires access to technological equipment and good quality internet; 

• May require some technical support; 

• If not used moderately, it can be counterproductive. 

Asynchronous Communication 

Asynchronous communication consists of the exchange of information between people in a non-direct and simultaneous way, i.e. one of the people may not respond immediately to the other party. 

✔️ Advantages: 

• Flexible time management; 

• More planning and organisation; 

• Increased productivity and better performance; 

• More considered exchange of information; 

• Possibility of revision and, consequently, less errors. 

❌ Disadvantages: 

• More moderate communication; 

• More difficulty in solving problems; 

• Requires self-discipline and confidence. 

The main difference between these two types of communication lies essentially in the time lag between the parties involved, while in one the response is immediate, in the other it is not. 

But how do you choose the ideal model? 👇 

The use of each of these types of communication must be considered and adapted to each situation. For example, synchronous meetings are mostly used to resolve urgent topics or make decisions, where it is important that the different parties are simultaneously talking about the topic and there are no gaps in communication. But in reality, any subject, even the most important ones, can be dealt with asynchronously, as long as the parties involved are committed to responding. 

Synchronous communication can be the most disadvantageous in the sense that it can have a tiring and unproductive effect over the course of a working day. The time employees spend in meetings can hinder productivity and make them feel overwhelmed and stressed. Furthermore, working remotely as a team requires communication, documentation and project management. When teams work asynchronously, much of the information circulates in text format, which in itself makes the information clearer and more structured, there is documentation of all the information and data shared and all the information flows more objectively.  

In short, these to two communication models should coexist in a balanced way and should be chosen for specific moments depending on the situation and need. 

But beware! You also need to remember that working remotely doesn’t just mean exchanging a few messages and having a few meetings, you need to use these different types of communication and the platforms assertively. 

For example: 

➡️ Adopt only the tools that are necessary and make the most sense, and not having several channels of communication; 

➡️ Trust must be the basis of teamwork and realise that it is not necessary for everyone to be in constant contact; 

➡️ Structure information in a clear, simples and objective way, regardless of the form and channel of communication; 

➡️ Remember that not everything is so urgent that it requires immediate meetings. 

In conclusion, the most important thing is to adapt communication strategies so that they lead to increased productivity and positive results, and not the other way round.  

If you’re looking for a space where you can work remotely, Fusion Cowork has everything you need, from fast internet for your meetings to rooms where you can have more privacy. Book your visit here! 😊