Communication is all about the transaction of information between two or more individuals. Through utilizing verbal and
nonverbal cues, people can express ideas, convey emotions and let their intentions be known to others. It enables individuals to
understand one another and clearly explain what they mean. As such, communication plays an important role in building personal
and social connections. Having said that, the ways at which people can communicate today have changed significantly with the rise
of digital platforms.
Modern day communication is highly influenced by the development of technology. Expression of ideas or thoughts,
exchange of information, and even relationship building drastically changed due to the internet, social media and devices. People
now have the convenience to contact their friends, family, or workmates, regardless of distance and time. Technology allowed for this
instantaneous and easily accessible communication, removing the necessity for physical presence. Despite the benefits these
advancements provide, questions of authenticity can be brought up. People are more connected than ever, however, achieving a
genuine understanding among each other feels more difficult.
Individuals can interact with multiple people across different platforms, and even send or receive messages immediately,
making the current state of communication feel quick but interactive. Communication is no longer limited to verbal or written text,
nowadays people express themselves through videos, voice messages or notes, and even emojis or stickers. These components
allow for quick and even fun ways to express a message towards friends or family. However, this could incentivize a rapid exchange
of information which may come off as shallow or disingenuous, possibly creating misunderstandings.
The current state of communication revolves around social media culture or trends. Through platforms such as TikTok,
Instagram, and Facebook, communication became too public and even performative. Content and messages shared or posted are
often formulated to garner approval from others rather than to actually express what they mean, undervaluing substance in their
communication. Additionally, unverified information tends to be distributed due to individuals taking content at face value, leading to
the spread of misinformation. Even with these negative aspects, it can’t be denied that these platforms still exhibit multiple benefits.
This allowed for a more expressive and creative method of communication, even helping people who share the same interest
connect.
All these factors contribute to the characteristics of communication. Firstly, it is fast-paced and constantly changing with
new trends, affecting how individuals talk to one another. Secondly, communication is primarily technology driven, relying on
smartphones, social media, or other online messaging applications. This makes communication adaptive and versatile, not bound by
only one medium to be able to express one’s thoughts. Lastly, permanence and traceability. This characteristic can both serve as a
positive and negative trait of modern communication. Positive in a way that people are able to retain information besides within their
mind, allowing the recollection of conversations or events seem easier. In contrast, this can also serve as a person’s digital footprint.
Poorly written messages or content shared within the internet may be taken out of context and used against somebody, especially in
job applications where a person’s background is traced even digitally in order to protect the image of their company.
Despite the current advancements of communication, it still relies heavily on the ability of the communicator to express
clarity and empathy. Technology itself is neither bad or good, it is determined on how people utilize and maximize the capabilities of
technology. Modern communicators tend to be brief, and often informal. Abbreviations, emojis, slang, and memes are commonly
used to convey thoughts and messages efficiently. These can offer a fun and lighthearted way to converse, however it is important to
keep in mind how and when these are used to avoid disrespect or misconception. Skilled communicators understand the true
capabilities and limitations digital platforms have. While they are able to utilize these platforms to the fullest, they are still proficient in
face-to-face communication and are aware when to alternate between these two mediums.
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