Your instructor will direct this role-playing group activity. Using instant messaging, you will simulate one of several typical business scenarios—for example, responding to a product inquiry, training a new-hire, troubleshooting with a customer, or making an appointment. For each scenario, two or more students chat professionally with only a minimal script to practice on-the-spot, yet courteous, professional interactions by real-time chat. Your instructor will determine which client software or app you will need and provide brief instructions to prepare you for your role. If you don’t have instant messaging software on your computer or smart device yet, download the application first—for example, Slack, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Skype. All messaging software enables users to share photos and media files. These advanced features turn messaging apps into a simple conferencing tool and video phone. You can make voice calls and use webcam video as well. Zoom and FaceTime are other videoconferencing options. Contrary to calling landlines or cell phones, you can connect for free on Wi-Fi with people all around the world, as long as you’re both connecting by the same app. You may want to use a computer because downloading chat sessions is easier on a computer than on a smartphone.

Your Task.

Open the messaging or chat app your instructor chooses. Follow your instructor’s directions closely as you role-play the business situation you were assigned with your partner or team. The scenario involves two or more people who communicate by real-time chat.