Voice is still the No. 1 choice of communication for users, whether it is work- or personal-related, despite recent revelations that seem to have replaced the need to pick of a phone (for most of us, it is a mobile one). But with SMS, instant message, e-mail and social media platforms, there is less of a need for users to communicate over phone, or even face-to-face.
Yet, even with these newfound technologies infiltrating the way users interact, a recent survey by TrackVia revealed that most workers still prefer and choose to communicate in person.
Three hundred surveys were completed by U.S. respondents who use computers and software as part of their daily work operations, and from the responses it is clear that although electronic tools of communication increase productivity, fortunately it hasn’t placed the need for human interaction.
In regard to sharing encouragement or positive reinforcement in the workplace, it just doesn’t quite foster the same emotional reaction through e-mail or text, which is why 69 percent of survey preferred this type of meeting face-to-face.
However, only a decade ago, when computers weren’t as prevalent as they are now, people in the workplace had no choice but to communicate with each other in person if they had a question or concern. Now workers can go months communicating with a worker they have never met in person or even talked to on the phone, as 40 percent of respondents said this situation has occurred.
Now it is common for people to build e-relationships, as electronic communication can break the ice for those who are new to the office or shy. In terms of building relationships, 44 percent of respondents said this type of communication has had a positive effect on workplace relationships.
Which makes us wonder, even though electronic communication hasn’t necessarily replaced the need for human interaction, it seems that it has begun to change the way people form relationships, especially in the workplace.