Etiquette 101
The Top Conversation You Should Always Avoid Having Via Text
Why You Shouldn’t Have This Conversation Over Text, According to an Expert
For many of us in our fast-paced digital environment, texting now is the main form of communication. Usually more easily available than a phone call, it’s fast and handy. Though it may be tempting to escape the awkwardness of a face-to — face talk, there are certain chats that should never happen over text message.
“Certain conversations demand the subtleties of tone and body language that text messages simply can’t convey,” says renowned etiquette guru Alexandra Blevins.
What then is the one discussion you should always have in person? Let’s examine in our most delicate discussions the relevance of time, tone, and context.
Text messages are obviously very handy for informal conversations and brief updates. Texting falls short, however, when it comes to delicate subjects — think criticism, conflicts, or news that changes your life. Your statement is too simple for misinterpretation, which leaves opportunity for uncertainty and needless anxiety.
I think it’s important to think about the tone of your message. If you don’t use your tone of voice and facial movements to show what you really mean, a comment you mean might come across as rude or fake. Messages don’t have the emotional background of face-to-face talks, so it’s hard to tell how the other person feels or how they might react.
Timing is also very important. Texting someone about a major concern outside of work might violate their personal space and generate further conflict. Restricting these delicate talks to in-person meetings ensures that both sides are fully engaged and attentive, thereby promoting more polite and productive communication.
Basically, even if books are excellent for efficiency, they are not the forum for in-depth, emotionally charged debates. Give in-person meetings top priority at these times to assist to preserve honest, sympathetic, and efficient communication. Recall, the medium is just as crucial as the content itself.
In Conclusion
Navigating discussions of great weight ultimately calls for a degree of personal connection that cannot be exactly duplicated by words. When it comes to critical issues, however, give phone conversations or face-to-face meetings first priority. This guarantees clarity but also helps empathy and understanding. Recall that when the other person can see your emotions or hear your voice, your tone and intentions come through considerably more naturally. Choose relevant communication techniques; your talks will be more sincere and successful.
