Communication Methods

Communication methods are dynamic and different depending on the relationship of those communicating, the content of the communication and the personalities of those in communication. Within the work environment the communication methods can differ greatly from a boss to coworkers. Depending on the size of a company the boss may not be easily accessible to have face-to-face meetings but rather it would be a better use of time to communicate through email or inter-office communications. With co-workers the dynamic will be different and face-to-face meetings could be more effective depending on the efficiency of time needed within the work environment. Communication with instructors will differ depending on the school environment you are working in. Within the format of UofP for online students it will be much easier to communicate through the online forum discussion threads. In a traditional class setting and depending on the topic of the class a face-to-face meeting could be the best option. With family and friends the dynamics are changing with the technology of how we communicate. Many people today are keeping touch with family and friends through text messages and online communities such as Myspace or Facebook. I still believe if a face-to-face conversation is not possible then I prefer to pick up the phone and call them directly.

Within any of the above mentioned relationship the communication methods can be affected depending on the tone of the conversation and/or if there is any conflict being discussed. The tone of a conversation can make a phone call more appropriate than an email with any of audiences. The tone can also make an email or written communication necessary depending on the intensity or volatility of the topic. In my experience I have found that to resolve conflict the best way to communicate, whenever possible, is to discuss it face-to-face. In an email or written communication the tone and intent of a message can be misread or misrepresented to the point of making the conflict worse than it originally was.