Hiding behind technology

Technology has moved on considerably, it has allowed us to communicate in so many different ways, but each method has its specific uses. Some mediums being on a more formal basis and seen to be commonly used in a professional environment and for replacing the old conventional methods of letter writing, such as email. The millennials are growing up with social media and texting, using their own language to interact but it has also become a way to deliver sensitive and bad news that should be delivered in person, with sensitivity and empathy in mind.

For some young people it has become an acceptable way of communicating and delivering various sensitive announcements via text and even social media. Too many people, this can be seen as being disrespectful, a long relationship that has earned respect and integrity over a long period of time can quickly generate resentment and mistrust, the risk of losing credibility is also at stake, it can be seen to be tactless with very little thought given. It seems some people don’t seem to be brave enough to meet people face to face to deliver news of a sensitive nature to their friends, even making a phone call appears to be too much effort these days, talking on the same mobile device that some people choose to text from appears to be too much trouble.

I love technology, but each medium has its place, social skills is also what should be important to people. Society needs to understand that just because technology is there, it doesn’t mean we can hide behind it. Just like in business, it’s always best to meet in person, if that’s not possible due to locality, then the next best thing is to talk on the phone, even video calls have become very popular. The concern is that I hear miscommunication happening more often, along with misinterpretation of messages, even people being in long relationships or friendships that have ended in a very abrupt ‘out of the blue’ manner due to a delivery of a message transported via text or email causing shock and upset. A connection that has lasted for years deserves more. Have we as a society lost our principles and tact, are we losing empathy for other people’s feelings. Are we becoming selfish and only thinking of ourselves to get out of a difficult situation and choosing the easiest option with no care for others!? Aren’t we also making ourselves more thick-skinned and fickle when dealing with these actions, or is that me being cynical?

For those that recognise the trait and living in a digital world, we need to convey some basic principles and communication etiquette. Instil this practice in those that need guidance. ‘Treat others as you expect to be treated’, I live by that quote. Let’s work on it!