Why Emails Can Easily Lead to Misunderstandings

In today’s digital age, emails have become one of the most commonly used forms of communication. They are quick, easy, and efficient. However, there are also many downsides to email communication that many people overlook. According to a study by Professor Morris and Lowenstein, there are three major issues with email communication that people should be aware of to prevent misunderstandings.

Issue #1: Lack of Cues

One of the biggest problems with email communication is the lack of cues. It is difficult to convey emotions through email, as there is no facial expression or tone of voice to help the receiver understand the sender’s message. This can lead to misunderstandings, as the receiver is left to interpret the message on their own. For example, a sarcastic remark made through email may be misinterpreted as rude or offensive.

Issue #2: Urgency

Another issue with email communication is the urgency it creates for the sender to think and write quickly. Since emails are supposed to be quick and efficient, people often write without taking the time to carefully consider their message. This can lead to mistakes, such as typos or inaccuracies, which can also lead to misunderstandings.

Issue #3: Lack of Personal Rapport

Email communication also lacks personal rapport. When communicating via email, people are often focused more on their own message than on building a relationship with the person they are communicating with. This can lead to a lack of empathy and understanding, as well as a lack of trust and rapport.

The Solution: Adding Other Forms of Communication

To overcome these issues, it is important to add other forms of communication, such as phone calls, face-to-face meetings, and video chats. According to the study by Professor Morris and Lowenstein, a brief phone call can dramatically improve email communication. By adding a personal touch, such as a quick phone call, people can establish a favorable bias and build rapport, making email communication more effective.

For example, if you are planning to buy something on Craig’s List, it is a good idea to make a brief phone call to the seller before negotiating via email. This can establish trust, build rapport, and help ensure that your email negotiations are more successful.

Overall, it is important to recognize the issues with email communication and to add other forms of communication to overcome these issues. By doing so, people can build better relationships, prevent misunderstandings, and ensure that their messages are being conveyed effectively. So, next time you want to send an important message or negotiate via email, consider adding a personal touch to ensure success.