IDK My BFF Jill

Virtual communication brings ease to everyday communication. It this fast paced electronic world, we often feel we don’t have time to pick up the phone, dial, wait for the rings, and possibly get through to who we have to talk to. Also, electronic forms of communication such as texting allow us to get a message across in times when its inconvenient to talk.

The social networks of today such as Facebook, Twitter, Myspace, etc. allow us to see personal information, photos, and have conversations with friends and people we don’t even know. This obviously causes an increase in vulnerability. Many people don’t realize how much info they are releasing and without the proper privacy this information can be damaging to them both personally and professionally.

As electronic communication grows, the need for the former interpersonal communication skills such as talking in person, speaking on the telephone, and writing letters will start to diminish. With increasing amounts of electronic communication, we have seen increasing amounts of internet slang and word abbreviations. As people continue to use these terms online they also start to integrate into our everyday speech. Many of us have probably seen the Cingular commercial with the girl talking to her mom about her texting bill. Although this is exaggerated, there is truth behind the communication. You may be able to hold small talk like you would in an instant message or chat room, but full professional communication may be hurt largely.