Communicating Virtually

TL;DR

Communicating virtually has its challenges, including the lack of nonverbal cues, but it can also provide a sense of security for non-native speakers and offer cost and capability advantages for organizations.

Transcript

let's take a look at communicating virtually although some e-learning may take advantage of technologies like video chat the majority of communication will not be face to face text-based communication especially when mediated through a computer is significantly less rich than when communication occurs face-to-face this reflects the fact that someon... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥺 Text-based virtual communication lacks nonverbal cues, leading to potential miscommunication.
• 🔇 Virtual communication provides a sense of security for non-native speakers and improves their ability to communicate with native speakers.
• 🗺️ Virtual communication offers cost and time advantages for organizations, as it eliminates the need for travel.
• ❓ It facilitates diverse participation and can be part of an organization's diversity and inclusion strategy.
• 👻 Lean communication methods, like email and text, allow non-native speakers to rehearse and improve their communication skills.
• ♿ Access to technology and the internet can be a barrier to successful virtual communication for some individuals.
• ❓ Discomfort with virtual communication can hinder training transfer and job performance.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the challenges of text-based virtual communication compared to face-to-face communication?

Text-based virtual communication lacks nonverbal information like facial expressions and tone, making miscommunication more likely. Without visual or auditory hints, the sender may not realize the need for further explanation.

Q: How does virtual communication benefit non-native speakers?

The psychological distance created by virtual communication can provide a sense of security for non-native speakers, enabling them to communicate more comfortably and improve their ability to interact with native speakers.

Q: How does virtual communication benefit organizations in terms of cost and capability?

Virtual communication allows for improved trainee and protege interactions, regardless of geographical location. It eliminates the need for travel, saving time and costs associated with face-to-face training or meetings.

Q: How can virtual communication contribute to diversity and inclusion strategies?

Utilizing virtual communication as part of training and development can be an integral part of an organization's diversity and inclusion strategy. It allows for increased participation among geographically dispersed employees and facilitates communication among diverse individuals.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Text-based communication on computers is less rich than face-to-face communication, leading to potential miscommunication.

• Virtual communication can create a sense of security for non-native speakers and improve trainee interactions.

• Cost and capability advantages, as well as diversity and inclusion benefits, are associated with virtual communication.