Friday 4 November 2016

Have We Lost The Art of Communication?

The Result Begins With The Right Approach.

Ever wonder why you never seem to get anywhere talking on the phone? You're not the only one. Whether you're texting with a friend or trying to set up a phone chat with a potential employer, it seems like you never quite get the result you want. Are you doing something wrong? Is it bad luck or do you truly just have terrible Communication Skills? Well, the answer might be of the "yes and no" variety. For centuries the human race relied upon personal interaction to communicate.

More Technology But Less Connection.

There are countless avenues nowadays where interactions that used to be face-to-face have now become digitally managed. This seems to have a lot of benefits in terms of use, range, and convenience. But, there is such a thing as too much convenience. Human civilization has always had a need to exchange information with each other. While digital technology has provided an unprecedented range and scope there are still many downsides.

Simply put, some things you just cannot convey via texting. A phone offers some additional audio cues but it is still lacking components that are critical to a good conversation. Before iPhones and Skype, even before books or the written word. Humans spent millennia developing the nuances of facial expression and non-verbal communication. Phone chat can't relay that key information.

Something as simple as an eye roll, a nod of the head, or non-committal grunt may seem like light emphasis. Yet, they are actually a near-universal means of expressing very complex thoughts or emotions. Sometimes these responses are so innate that they happen subconsciously. Even before we have time to think about how we will respond. Can you tell when your partner is angry without a word?

Machinery Can't Replace Human Emotion.

Here's an example. As humans, we have a well-intentioned but often frustrating desire to be polite in social situations. There is no doubt that politeness has it benefits. It helps to ease tensions and aids people to work together. Also, it supports our need to navigate complex social situations. It's always a good habit to develop. Avoiding offensive remarks or creating enemies when you might need to collaborate with them in the future. However, that means that people rarely say what they mean, even in situations where it is important.

A certain cue, conscious or subconscious, can indicate disinterest, excitement, or confusion to an attentive observer. These cues are primarily non-verbal. Thus they often do not come across when you are interacting with someone online or through the phone. As such, your ability to translate and adapt to the person you are talking with can become extremely hampered.

Make An Effort To Connect In-Person 

You can certainly develop a set of verbal skills that will make your long distance relations more effective. That said, for important encounters, it's usually best to show up in person when possible. Get out from behind your desk, leave your smartphone at home. Meet your friends and sit down and just talk with each other. Yes without a doubt modern technology has made it easier to communicate on the whole. But nothing can replace the feeling of sharing real time together with family and friends!

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