Solo and small firm lawyers who want radical efficiency should use asynchronous communication as much as possible.
The Benefits of Asynchronous Communication
Asynchronous communication is a game-changer for law firms. Why?
Because it eliminates the usual disruptive demands of synchronous communication.
In other words, it eliminates interruptions and sharpens focus, enabling you to be more productive. It also helps overcome disparity in time zones so everyone can collaborate seamlessly, no matter where they are in the world.
Because async comms are recorded, every crucial detail is captured. This enables recipients to pick up on nuances in the sender’s voice and overall demeanor.
And here’s another big benefit: it’s a catalyst for deeper thinking.
When you’re freed from the pressure of on-the-spot replies, you can mull over the sender’s words, which leads to more thoughtful responses.
This is critical in discussions where nuance matters.
Asynchronous Communication Helps Increase Law Firm Efficiency
Why endure endless emails just to schedule a simple appointment? You don’t have to anymore. Because, now, automated scheduling allows for seamless coordination of people’s calendars. Automated scheduling not only saves time but also allows people to create boundaries that enables them to do more deep work.
Asynchronous video enables you to replace most meetings. Another game-changer. The new video recording tools make it possible for anyone to quickly record and share detailed updates at their convenience.
Think about the power of having detailed communication without the need for real-time attendance. When conveying complex information it’s incredibly useful when you can rewind and go over something you didn’t hear or understand.
Virtual meetings are also possible via recorded videos. Which is helpful when people’s schedules don’t align, as is often the case. But even if scheduling is not a problem, it’s still often better to have “async meetings”
Quick chats have also become a mainstay of efficient organizations. Business messaging tools enable rapid, informal communication, allowing team members to exchange information, make quick decisions, or seek immediate feedback without the need for emails or phone calls.
Async voice messaging is also worth using. Instead of synchronizing schedules for a phone call, voice messaging offers the personal touch of a call with the flexibility of asynchronous communication.
Top Tools for Asynchronous Communication
Here are some of the new tools that are free to try and inexpensive to keep using.
- Loom is a popular new tool that enables lawyers to create and share video messages, making it ideal for conveying complex information or providing case updates in a personalized manner (watch this demo video to see an example of how I use Loom).
- Calendly streamlines appointment scheduling, allowing lawyers to book meetings without the back-and-forth email exchanges.
- Voxer is asynchronous communication on steroids. Because it offers voice messaging that’s as frictionless as using a walkie-talkie (click here to learn more).
Besides those lesser-used tools, there are the now popular business chat tools:
- Slack and Microsoft Teams both provide robust power for team communication, file sharing, and project collaboration, fostering a cohesive and connected work environment among remote teams.
So, those are a few essential tech tools that help lawyers who want more convenience, efficiency, and speed in their communication.
Conclusion
In sum, asynchronous communication improves remote collaboration, boosts productivity and improves decision-making by enabling thoughtful responses.
P.S. If you want my Ultimate Guide to Technology for Lawyers click here.
