Ping - by Andrew Brodsky (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

The essential guide for when (and how best) to use virtual communication tools, from video to instant messaging and everything in between.

Award-winning professor, management consultant, and virtual communications expert Andrew Brodsky is here to tell you that, yes, that meeting could have been an email. And that email? Maybe it should have been a voice note (really!). And your camera--it's okay to turn it off; sometimes it's even better.

If you're crushed under the weight of your inbox or exhausted from back-to-back-to-back video calls, then Ping is here to help workers at all levels and of all stripes--remote, hybrid, and in person--who use communication technologies as part of their jobs. Split into three parts, this book tackles the core components of how to better navigate communication challenges and technology in contemporary workplaces. Brodsky addresses critical topics such as:
-When to choose an email, instant message, or video call
-How to make better virtual first impressions
-Methods for optimizing communication productivity
-How to build strong relationships at a distance
-Ways to win negotiations and solve conflicts from behind a screen
-And more

With enlightening stories, interviews with top business leaders, and Brodsky's cutting-edge social science research on virtual communication tools, Ping is the necessary playbook for mastering virtual communication to increase productivity, gain influence, and deepen connections.

Review Quotes

"Brodsky offers a thoughtful examination of communication in the digital age, providing useful strategies for both in-person and online interactions. This book presents valuable insights for those looking to enhance their conversational effectiveness." -Nir Eyal, bestselling author of Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products

"Ping is a must-read for leaders navigating hybrid work. Brodsky brilliantly outlines science-backed strategies to build trust and authentic relationships in virtual settings, helping teams stay connected and engaged. This book is essential for anyone seeking to thrive in a digitally driven, hybrid workplace." -Abhijit Bhaduri, author, executive coach, former GM Global Learning & Development for Microsoft

"Timely, practical and a pleasure to read, Ping will help you communicate more effectively in our increasingly digital world. Brodsky's expertise shines through on each page of this must-read for anyone hoping to deepen connections, negotiate more effectively or simply save time on communication in the modern workplace." -Katy Milkman, international bestselling author of How to Change

"Finally: a science-based guide to having better conversations by text, email, phone, video, and yes, even social media. Andrew Brodsky is one of the world's foremost experts on virtual communication, and his book is brimming with surprising insights and useful tips. It's the resource we need for avoiding misunderstandings and making genuine connections." -Adam Grant, #1 New York Times bestselling author of THINK AGAIN and HIDDEN POTENTIAL, and host of the podcast Re: Thinking

"With a focus on making every interaction intentional and productive, Ping: The Secrets of Successful Virtual Communication offers practical strategies for improving virtual communication, building stronger relationships, and minimizing misunderstandings. Packed with real-world stories, interviews, and cutting-edge research, Ping is an indispensable guide for anyone looking to thrive in the modern, tech-driven work environment." --Matt Abrahams, author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter and host of Think Fast, Talk Smart The Podcast

"I've spent much of my career designing virtual communication tools, but always wished there was a how-to guide for getting the most out of them. Now, there is. Ping is full of concrete, research-backed advice. A must read for everyone who communicates online--in other words, everyone."--Jake Knapp, Co-founder of Google Meet and NYT bestselling author of Sprint

About the Author

Andrew Brodsky is a management professor at the McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin and CEO of Ping Group. He is an expert in workplace technology, communication, and productivity. Andrew has received numerous research and teaching awards, including being chosen by Poets&Quants as one of the "World's 40 Best MBA Professors Under 40." He earned a PhD in organizational behavior from Harvard Business School and a BS from The Wharton School. He lives with his wife and two rescue dogs in Austin, Texas. For more information, please visit PingGroup.org or ABrodsky.com.