Communication is key

Nowadays in this new world of advanced technology we find ourselves engaging in the bad habit of explaining everything through a digital keyboard. However, what is more effective? Communication through a screen or communication in a call/in person?

In today’s blog we are going to address the importance in communication without the screen. I want you to take the time to reflect, when you must explain something major, or an issue do you communicate through a call/in person or through text?

According to Pew Research in 2010, around 75% of millennials would rather send a text than talk! That leaves a 25% chance of either a phone/voice call or a in person visit (which now a days I believe is highly less likely to occur). Now imagine the 12-year difference it would be now that technology has advanced and expanded. If statistics are not a big eye opener to why communication is better without the screen let me explain some more.

For one, communication through a screen can either make the argument or point more drastic than it was planned to be. For example, one can...

• Cannot express their true emotions.

• Not see the other in person, meaning they will be unaware of the voice or facial expressions giving throughout the discussion.

• Perceive the story in a different attitude.

• Misunderstand what the other is trying to communicate.

• Text during the wrong time and interrupt.

• Get upset and began taking the point a different direction.

• May not put their full attention.

• Get confused on when to respond when the other is spamming paragraphs.

At this point I hope some of you can now understand the importance of leaving the screen to the simple issues. Moving on from the types of communications, let us discuss what makes one a "good" communicator. I will just touch base on what I believe is a key issue in why many cannot fulfill a proper conversation. There is either issues between the explainer or the responder.

For good communication in a relationship, one must be able to explain issues or concepts that have a big impact positively or negatively in an affective matter. Meaning, one should not direct an issue in an argumentized approach. Instead, one should communicate during a time when they are able to speak maturely and calmy. Secondly, one should always go in with an open mind, important thing to remember is that there are always two sides to a story. A last point I would like to touch on is being able to explain what the problem is/was and not make the other play a guessing game. How can one fix the issue if they do not know what the issue is in the first place?

In a responder’s position, going in with an open mind is still a very important beginning to do. It is also respectful and courteous to let the other finish talking and not interrupt so the issue can be correctly addressed. Once the issue/concept has been directed, one should not gaslight or play the reverse card on the other. Instead, one should explain their perspective or try to understand the others more into depth to address/fix the issue.

Although this was a very short blog today, I believe it is a very important one! I heard an amazing service and reflected upon communication. Although I did not go into depth, this will be an initial start until next time.

Image by Bill Porter