IM Is Actually Like Live Email
That is a rather apt description, don’t you think? I believe instant messaging will eventually displace email. I’ve heard many arguments against my position, but I really think it will happen. Of course, I liked New Coke when it came out so consider that point in my prediction.
ManageSmarter.com offers this piece - Rethinking Instant Messaging -as a discussion on the use of IM. The article contains 2 points that I think will drive the expansion of IM:
He says IM is more effective than e-mail for critical-action items like getting approval on a press release.
and
IM also pushes out to the customer at Web sites with live-support chats, increasing customer response.
So many aspects of our world are built upon speed and productivity that IM will become the faster answer to email. To the first quote above, IM is effective in that you know if the person is live on the other end. You can then get straight to your discussion. Second, there is no waiting for them to sift through all of the emails in their inbox.
To the second quote; in my personal experience I have found customer support via IM to be the quickest answer to my problem. Phone support has turned into a black hole in which you emerge on the other side in India. At times it works and at other times it is a time sink.
I’m still bullish on IM and the way it will change business in the very near future.
Posted By Derrick Moe | Communication | |
You’re completely out of your mind, Moe. Of course, I say that admitting that that this past week I had an IM conversation with a Minneapolis sales exec from Fedex where we coordinated a visit. Also, I say that after getting instant (and fabulous) customer support from Andy at ZoomInfo.com - yeah, gotta’ admit - over their Instant Messaging help button.
But you have to help me with this one, Derrick, because technology already besieges my life. Today, I can shut off my computer at 6 PM and settle back, eat dinner, watch a movie and ESCAPE. Where do I escape in a world of 24/7 IM? Here’s the deal, though. If you say it, I’m listening. I might just have to learn what IM software you use, how much of it you do on your phone, etc. I’m listening; I’m willing to learn. But, I’m already over-teched, so go slow, OK?
I am now thinking I AM out of my mind. My laptop died yesterday and I’m furiously installing programs on a desktop system. This seems like a dramatic step backwards when attempting to discuss IM.
I must confess, I am not a huge fan of IM. To me, it is much faster to call and talk to someone as opposed to punching out a message.
I do 90% of my IM work on my cell phone - usually when I am out of the office which is quite valuable. Right now I am using it mainly for internal office topics and not with customers.
I’m addicted to the speed of it in comparison to email. But most times you just can’t beat the old fashioned phone call. In regards to our over-teched lives, I’m afraid it is only going to get worse!
[...] article was titled “IM is Actually Like Live Email.” Good article. Made my skin crawl, but that’s just me. I don’t want yet another [...]