Compare and contrast the advantages of and problems with electronic mail, other verbal communication media, and nonverbal communication

Compare and contrast the advantages of and problems with electronic mail, other verbal communication media, and nonverbal communication

The two main types of communication channels are verbal and nonverbal. Various forms of Web-based communication are widely used in organizations, with email the most popular. Although efficient and a useful filing cabinet, email is relatively poor at communicating emotions; it tends to reduce politeness and respect; it is an inefficient medium for communicating in ambiguous, complex, and novel situations; and it contributes to information overload. Facebook-like websites, wikis, virtual reality platforms, and other forms of social media are gaining popularity in the workplace. Social media include Web-based tools (websites, applications, etc.) that allow users to generate and exchange information. They serve several functions, including presenting the individual's identity, enabling conversations, sharing information, sensing the presence of others in the virtual space, maintaining relationships, revealing reputation or status, and supporting communities. Nonverbal communication includes facial gestures, voice intonation, physical distance, and even silence. Unlike verbal communication, nonverbal communication is less rule-bound and is mostly automatic and non-conscious. Some nonverbal communication is automatic through a process called emotional contagion.