In the past number of years, email and I have been having a debate. I often wonder and now understand a better way to communicate…..let me explain.
I am often asked if I have received an email as I may not have responded as promptly as the sender may have wished. Also, as I have lost hearing as I age, I have become more sensitive to what I don’t hear. When I miss cues because I don’t have my devices in, I am not surprised at the frustration that I experience from other parties. A missed tone of voice can separate a joke from sarcasm.
What does this have to do with email?
I am amazed how sometimes we can’t hear. I am sure that I have frustrated another on the other end because they missed the tone or misunderstood the intent of the email. The thing about a communicating through an email is that one can’t hear a tone no matter how many smiley faces you insert. One can’t hear sarcasm, one can’t hear…anything. So the other party can only guess. Sometimes they guess wrong.
The other side…it can be much more effective when the detail in the information is needed. For example: “Your name is…can you spell that for me?” “The appointment is on…fill in the blank.” The proper information is communicated, but the emotion is lost. Sometimes a normal, old fashioned, phone call or discussion is best.
When I wear my hearing devices I have come to realize that wearing them I get the best of both worlds. The detail and the emotional connection. If am going to try to be funny I think I am going to stick with talking…I promise. Then if I miss, I don’t have to clarify a misunderstanding. I instantly know it was dud. 🙂
There is so much power, inflection and emotion behind the spoken word!
There certainly is! Good point Kelly!
Yes, any kind of communication through writing can be tough! I think of texting as well. However, a lot of our patients prefer texting and emails because it is so hard to hear what I am trying to say. So, I guess it can go both ways and it’s just a matter of perspective and trying our best to be patient and kind to one another while trying to figure it all out. Thanks for sharing your perspective!
Jen, Thank you for sharing your thoughts!You have good ideas regarding text and emails being helpful for many!
Very true?! Many times I don’t like to send emails or text, especially if it’s something important that needs discussed. I like a phone call to connect better with the person I’m talking to, or a good old face-to-face conversation!
Gail,
Well put!