Most people would agree that communicating with each other is a cornerstone of human existance.  That is, a critical behaviour that is one of the keys to a happy life.

Balancing your personal needs with those of others, while communicating with others,  often requires you to tread a fine line between getting the message across and not offending.

What are you trying to do

Communications  are either an information exchange (typically two way) or providing information or direction (typically one way).  These are not exclusive practices and a single communication event can include both types.

Information exchanges work best as conversations or discussions whether in group meetings , one on one verbal exchanges or even online conferences.

One way information or providing directions can occur in all the above ways but also be used effectivelyin email exchanges.  Email exchanges usually fall apart when one or the other party attempts to make the interchange two way.  Email is not a good vehicle for that.

Treading the Fine Line

If your intent is to provide a clear message or direction, often some finese is required to ensure receptivity.  The key is early recognition of low acceptance or receptivity to your information.

When you identify this the best approach is to shift gears and enter an “info exchange” mode.

Exchanging information, by it’s very definition, is two way and when done effectively, adversarial and attack type communications can be avoided.

The goal is to achieve consensus around the information/message you are conveying.  Even though you might have begun the discussion with a singular, one way perspective, shifting to a more collaberative method (while not compromising your intent) is the fine line that more often then not leads to good results.

As noted, it is almost impossible to have an effective information exchange when the communication vehicle is email and in these cases I would exit that method as quickly as possible and move to dialogue.