Clear is Kind: Mastering Digital Communication in a Remote-First World
Tim Neutkens
Editor
Tim Neutkens
Editor
In today’s remote and hybrid work culture, most of our communication happens digitally. But unlike face-to-face conversations, digital messages lack tone, body language, and immediate feedback.
That’s why mastering digital communication isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s essential.
Why Clarity Matters More Than Ever
Poor communication causes:
- Missed deadlines
- Unclear expectations
- Extra meetings
- Frustration across teams
Good digital communication leads to:
✅ Faster decisions
✅ Happier teams
✅ Better collaboration
1. Write Like a Human (Not a Bot)
Skip robotic intros like:
"Dear Sir/Madam, I hope this email finds you well."
Instead, say:
"Hi team — quick update on today’s task below."
Be clear, brief, and personal.
2. Use Headers, Bullets, and Spacing
Walls of text overwhelm the reader. Help them scan and absorb quickly by:
- Breaking content into short paragraphs
- Using bold for important parts
- Adding lists when possible
This is especially helpful in Slack, Notion, email, and docs.
3. Set Context Before Details
Avoid messages like:
"Can you check this?"
Better:
"This is the updated landing page copy for the June campaign. Can you review tone and clarity by tomorrow?"
Give your reader a why and a what.
4. Use Visuals When Text Fails
Sometimes words aren't enough — show, don’t tell.
- Screenshot the issue
- Highlight the part in question
- Share a link (ScrinX is great for this 👋)
You'll avoid 4 follow-up questions with 1 image.
5. Confirm, Don’t Assume
End digital communication with clarity:
- ✅ “Just confirming, we’re launching on Thursday?”
- ✅ “Let me know if I’ve missed anything above.”
- ✅ “Does this solve what you were asking?”
This invites feedback and shows accountability.
6. Async ≠ Silence
When working across time zones, don’t leave others in the dark.
Even a simple:
“Received — will look into this tomorrow.”
…helps your team move forward without second-guessing.
Bonus: Write with Empathy
Always remember:
On the other side of your message is a human.
Add warmth where appropriate:
- “Thanks for jumping in so quickly!”
- “Let me know if you need more time on this.”
- “Appreciate the update!”
Clear is kind — but kind is also clear.
Final Thought
Digital communication is the language of modern work. When used well, it builds trust, speed, and alignment — even when teams are thousands of miles apart.
Start writing like you mean it.
Start sharing like you're in the same room.
The clearer you communicate, the less you need to repeat.
Need a faster way to communicate visually? Try pasting your next screenshot to ScrinX — no sign-up, just instant sharing.
