<\/a><\/p>\nA group like this could come in handy if you’re looking to update your communications style.<\/p>\n
Be mindful of rights and licensing<\/h3>\n
If you\u2019re creating a GIF, make sure you won\u2019t get in trouble for the imagery you use if you don\u2019t own it.<\/p>\n
Be appropriate<\/h3>\n
As with all content, consider voice and tone, and consider your audience. Is a GIF out of place here? Does using emoji or ASCII art enhance or detract from what I am trying to say? What tone does it convey? Will the people reading this get the point? All of these formats are just new kinds of words, in a way, so let\u2019s use them with the same care and consideration.<\/p>\n
Also, consider the context. \u201cShruggie,\u201d for instance, is not appropriate for every situation where there\u2019s a question or some uncertainty. It has acquired a cultural meaning that should not be misappropriated.<\/p>\n
Clarity Before Coolness<\/h2>\n
As with any new, shiny object out there, it can be tempting to dive in without thinking too hard about it. After all, GIFs and emoji can be uniquely effective, and they\u2019re incredibly pervasive across social media at the moment. Finally, our chance to be cool!<\/p>\n
But alas, it\u2019s not our job to be cool. Our job is to communicate. Sometimes, the two overlap, but we should never let the former trump the latter. These formats have a history and context that it is important to understand in order to use appropriately. If we know our stuff and keep our eyes peeled for the right opportunity, we might just pull it off.<\/p>\n