Question

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using texting, instant messaging, and emailing in communications, specifically business communications? What role, if any, does “body language” play in business communications

Answer 1

Emailing, texting, and instant messaging are the instant communication techniques commonly used in business communications. The advantages of these methods include

1.Fast delivery of messages within seconds. We can message and clarify the doubts real-time even if we are in the middle of some work or meeting through texting and instant messaging.

2.Less cost due to the use of electronic medium compared to the traditional paper communication methods.

3. We can attach big size files and send to the employees or other stakeholders without any difficulties or additional cost through emails.

4. There will be record of whatever we have communicated unless we delete those files. We can refer the same in case of any conflicts.

Disadvantages include that

1.Reduces face-to face communication and the chances of better relationship between the employees.

2. More chances of conflict among the employees as they communicate without seeing each other’s emotions.

3. The employees may get distracted from work if they focus on communicating more through the instant messaging techniques.

Body language is very important in business communication because it helps in effective communication. It helps the parties to understand what each other is trying to say better. Sometimes people use harsh words when they are under stress or emotionally disturbed. When the communication is only through the indirect methods like instant messaging or emailing, the relationship gets affected in these circumstances. But when people interacts face-to face, body language helps to understand the situation and behave accordingly. We can identify whether the party is interested in the conversation or not through the body language. Proper body language helps to impress the other party and improve the relationship in business communications.