Cyber or virtual communication has become a convenient type of communication, basically 24/7. Being able to communicate to someone at any given time of the day thanks to technology has been a wonderful thing. “We live in in a world where technology grows and changes a lot faster than some of us can manage to keep up with. But the one thing about technology that doesn’t change is the concept behind it: It’s a tool we can use to make what we’re doing both easier and better. (Account, 2020)”
Now, when talking about communication, I am not meaning a response right away. But rather being able to communicate to someone, whether that be sending an email or text just stating a fact, asking a non-urgent question, etc. However, “saying something through text messages is a lot different from saying it in person. The latter lacks the body language, the eye contact, and the emotional connection in the face-to-face moment. (Sermaxhaj, 2023)” Since communication in these types of ways happen on a daily basis it is more common that miscommunication or misunderstands happen. Therefore, technology can be a great thing but at the same time it can cause many issues. Regarding work or within personal relationships as well. A simple text t my husband can be miscommunicated just as much as a simple email to one of my coworkers. Those on the receiving end might not understand the tone of the message which can cause majority of the issues. I’ve personally learned over the years that even if you do not use short hand messaging and tend to type things out, it still has the chance of a miscommunication. Technology I find to be great in the sense that it is at the tips of fingers and allows easy communication.
References:
Account, M. (2020, February 28). The misunderstanding of using technology. AZCOMP Technologies. https://www.azcomp.com/blog/the-misunderstanding-of-using-technology/
Sermaxhaj, G. (2023, September 20). Online communication and misunderstanding. Youth Time Magazine: News that Inspires, Updates that Matter. https://youthtimemag.com/online-communication-and-misunderstanding/
Online communication, with its round-the-clock accessibility, has indeed changed the way we connect with each other. It’s like having the world at our fingertips. We can reach out to anyone, anywhere, at any time. This has revolutionized our personal and professional lives, making it easier to stay connected and share information.
But as Sermaxhaj (2023) pointed out, it’s not without issues. One big problem is the lack of non-verbal cues like body language and eye contact. These cues are super important in helping us understand the tone and emotional context of a message. When we communicate face-to-face, we rely heavily on these cues. They provide a depth of understanding that text-based communication often lacks. In online communication, these non-verbal cues are absent. This can lead to misunderstandings and misinterpretations. A simple emoji or a sentence can be interpreted in multiple ways, depending on the reader’s perspective. This is particularly true in an age where emojis and shorthand are commonly used in text-based communication. This form of communication can be interpreted differently by different people, adding another layer of complexity to online communication.
Misunderstandings can happen in both our personal and professional lives. Even when we’re careful with our words and have the best intentions and awareness of our audience, the tone of a message can still be misunderstood, leading to confusion or even conflict. This can strain relationships and create unnecessary tension.
While technology has made it easier for us to communicate, it can’t replace the depth and personal touch of face-to-face interactions. When we talk to someone face-to-face, we get immediate feedback, a more personal connection, and a better understanding of the message. We can pick up on subtle cues, such as changes in facial expression, tone of voice, or a shift in body language that can significantly impact the meaning of a message. Moreover, face-to-face communication promotes more robust relationships. It allows for a level of intimacy and understanding that is difficult to achieve online. This is particularly important in building trust, whether in personal relationships or professional collaborations.
In conclusion, while technology has its perks and has made communication more convenient, it’s not without its downsides. It’s essential to be aware of these potential negatives and aim for clear and effective communication, whether online or in person. As we work through this new digital age, we must remember the value of face-to-face communication and ensure that it remains a vital part of our communication with each other. After all, no amount of technological advancement can replicate the human connection formed through face-to-face interactions.
References:
Segal, J., Ph.D., Smith, M., M.A., Robinson, L., & Boose, G. (2023, August 14). Nonverbal Communication and Body Language. HelpGuide.org. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/relationships-communication/nonverbal-communication.htm
Sermaxhaj, G. (2023, September 20). Online communication and misunderstanding. Youth Time Magazine: News that Inspires, Updates that Matter. https://youthtimemag.com/online-communication-and-misunderstanding/