Asynchronous communication: what it is and how it benefits small business

Today's businesses often rely on remote workers, who may be spread across time zones or work substantially different schedules, making effective communication more important than ever. For some companies, that may mean learning how to manage the challenges associated with asynchronous communication.

What is asynchronous communication?

Asynchronous communication refers to communication that doesn’t happen in real time. It can include two or more parties, and those involved don’t need to be present at the same time for communication to occur.

For example, a supervisor sends an email to two employees one evening. One employee reads the email and responds the next morning. The second worker responds later that afternoon. This is a type of asynchronous communication because the parties involved don't need to act or react to the correspondence at the same time.

Synchronous vs. asynchronous communication

The difference between synchronous and asynchronous communication is that synchronous communication happens in real time whereas asynchronous communication doesn’t.

Synchronous communication examples include:

Asynchronous communication examples include:

  • Mail
  • Email
  • Threaded internet forum conversations
  • Intranets such as Yammer or Happeo
  • Company-specific networks
  • Collaboration software such as Microsoft Teams
  • Direct messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Slack

Although some asynchronous communication methods, such as direct messaging apps, may also facilitate synchronous communication, they're still considered asynchronous because they don’t require real-time responses.

Benefits of Asynchronous Communication

Conventional wisdom favors synchronous communication because it facilitates real-time problem solving, and many companies regularly schedule video chats, conference calls and in-person meetings to discuss current business issues. However, more and more modern businesses are turning to asynchronous communication methods to accommodate the needs of remote employees, and they’re discovering the benefits of communicating this way.

Here are a few of the benefits of asynchronous team communication:

  • Fewer interruptions: Because asynchronous communications let team members respond when it’s convenient, it causes fewer interruptions to their daily workflow
  • Simplified scheduling: Asynchronous communication minimizes the need to have multiple workers available at the same time, which may benefit companies that operate around the clock or employ workers in multiple time zones
  • Time to think: When workers must respond to questions and requests in real time, they may not make optimal decisions. Asynchronous communications let workers have time to think over questions and requests prior to responding.
  • Communication records: Because asynchronous communication tends to be in writing, it creates records that can be helpful in resolving conflicts arising from misunderstandings and other miscommunications

Asynchronous communication best practices

Small businesses can effectively use asynchronous communication across their teams if they engage in these best practices:

  • Update your status: If you’re using a forum or messaging app, get in the habit of updating your status regularly so team members know when you’re available
  • Flag urgent requests: If something requires a prompt response, flag it so employees know it should be bumped to the head of their to-do list
  • Provide detailed information: Whether you’re asking a question or requesting an action, provide the recipient with the information they'll need to be able to respond efficiently and effectively without unnecessarily clarifying communication
  • Define timelines: Always let your team members know when you'll need a response to your communications as well as deadlines for any actions being requested

Choosing the right method of communications

Communication is one of the pillars of good business, so it’s important to be selective when choosing the way you do so. Let 8x8 help you find the solutions you need to effectively communicate with your team members and your clients.