It is no secret that the way humans communicate today is
almost completely different from the way humans communicated ten years
ago. We are beginning the
transition from face-to-face communication to virtual communication. Advances in technology have made
communication much more convenient than it has been in the past. Need to talk to a friend? Shoot them a
text. Want to make a business deal with a client? Set up an online videoconference. Need a new dress for formal? Order it
online. While the latest and
greatest has made life a lot easier, our newfound reliance on technology is
causing mankind to forget the way we are meant to communicate- in person, not
behind a screen.
Computers
have allowed for the most dramatic communication changes. In contrast to the
past, all communication is archived nowadays. We are now able to type everything and store our files in a
more sophisticated and organized manner.
The Internet has strengthened the power
of the computer and revolutionized the way we communicate. Virtually every type of communication
can be done over the Internet without directly communicating with others. We can:
·
Send mail over the Internet in the form of an
email- no more handwritten letters
·
Shop on the internet- no need to go to the store
·
Business can be done on the internet- no need to
go into an office
·
Keep in touch with old friends using social
media sites- no need to meet up
While the simplicity of the Internet
has solved a lot of logistical problems and saved people money and time, there
are a few major drawbacks. It is
more difficult to undo any communication done over the Internet. Once something is published online, it
is almost impossible to completely permanently remove it. This has cost people jobs and college
acceptances. Also, the Internet is
encouraging a sedentary lifestyle since there are few reasons to leave the
house anymore. The Internet is not
always a safe place to exchange important information, so when it comes to
banking and other places where private information is shared, one must be
cautious.
Cell
phones allow people immediate and direct communication. Cell phone capabilities not only
include now; they also include Internet surfing, emailing, gaming, photography,
and video chatting. These technology
have worked wonders for allowing people to easily keep in touch from anywhere
in the world. However,
communication through cell phones may be artificial. Studies have shown that people who communicate with their
cell phones through text messaging will say things to others that they would
not normally say in person. This loss
of communication integrity is scary and has resulted in fewer social skills,
especially in younger generations who have grown up using this technology.
While
these may not necessarily be changes for the better, we must accept the
direction communication is heading in and adapt. Online communication etiquette has formed over time, so
being up-to-date with is important.
There are ways to construct “professional” emails and certain online
practices that are frowned upon. Staying
in the loop on proper online exchanges will absolutely contribute to success in
the business world and the personal world. Even though the communication world is changing, I encourage
people to continue fostering relationships with others in person. Face-to-face exchanges are more
personal and are important for maintaining social skills as we move into a
virtual world.
