A Case for Slow Communication

The role of communication professionals is crucial in conveying messages and information to diverse internal and external audiences. In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, communication has significantly accelerated. This acceleration has been propelled by new media technologies, generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools, the need for social media responses and the challenges posed by global events like the pandemic.

This heightened pace demands that communication professionals worldwide navigate a complex environment with speed. Yet it also raises concerns about the sustainability of such practice, particularly considering the growing rates of burnout.

Should speed be the sole focus in organizational communication? Is there room for a more deliberate, slower approach?

The concept of deceleration is not new. The slow movement originated in the food industry in the mid-1980s in Italy as a reaction against fast-food culture. This philosophy has since extended to journalism, media, marketing and now communication practices.

As the director of a master’s program serving communication professionals, I regularly evaluate the trajectory of our field. In our program, we strive to integrate current trends and tools, while also exploring the potential for new practices. One of our more recent focuses has been exploring the possibility of a slower communication paradigm.

So how can a slower pace of communication be achieved?

Emphasizing Listening and Reflection

Transitioning to a slow communication paradigm necessitates a heightened focus on listening and reflection. Active listening is pivotal in cultivating a grounded, audience-centric approach. It transcends mere auditory reception, encompassing the understanding of speakers’ deeper messages, emotions and requirements. By attuning to the diverse needs of internal and external stakeholders, communication teams can evaluate and refine their strategies. Conversely, a system prioritizing information relay over listening is inherently built on assumptions, which creates its own set of issues.

Consider your practice — how much time is dedicated to listening versus responding? Which stakeholders receive your focused listening efforts, and how can your organization create platforms for meaningful listening opportunities? Are there systemic tools designed to facilitate listening in your organization?

Reevaluating Communication Volume

Rather than continuously adopting new digital tools and reacting to every crisis, strategic reduction of communication volume can be beneficial. This approach does not imply diminished responsiveness or engagement, but rather emphasizes quality interactions over quantity. By discerning what truly matters in communication, professionals can channel their energies into activities with the most significant impact, fostering trust and credibility.

Strengthening Interpersonal Communication

Establishing clear communication protocols within teams is crucial, particularly in today’s hybrid work environments with diverse communication channels. It’s essential to assess internal communication practices strategically; an overabundance of tools promising speed can sometimes hinder efficiency. Having clear protocols for tool usage is paramount.

While numerous tools facilitate communication, effective interpersonal communication transcends information exchange; it involves relationship building, collaboration and conflict resolution. Our program underscores active listening within teams, encourages transparent communication and provides training on team-building strategies, contributing to a more cohesive and productive work culture.

The Possibility of Slow Communication

Slowing down challenges us to reflect on whether we truly need to keep pace with everything, or if there’s value in taking time to learn and absorb information. By embracing a slower approach, we can escape the perpetual race and potentially uncover opportunities for growth and development.

Although slow communication contrasts with the prevalence of fast-paced organizational structures, initiating discussions about abundance, speed and sustainability in our field is crucial. Creating a more balanced and sustainable future for communication practice requires thoughtful consideration and deliberate action. What steps can you take at your organization to move towards a slow communication practice?