The Human Element
Mar 11
Despite the wonderful ability of social networking sites and technology have we lost touch with the human element? Depending on the relationship, I would say so.
Technology has made us connected on a global scale. At the same time, I would argue that it has made us disconnected.
For many, a Facebook Wall Post asking how you are doing has taken the place of a telephone call.
An online event invitation (the means of your choice) has taken place of sending an invitation by mail, or picking up the phone or inviting someone in person.
I see more of my friends and family on Facebook than I see them in person.
We can argue that we don’t have time like we used to, or “life” got in the way. I would say that, in a way, technology has made us lazy with our offline connections.
I have made many friends on Twitter that I would most likely have not met otherwise, but a silent dream of mine is to meet each one in person and shake their hand.
I can make a Skype call with a friend in California but that will never take the place of one day meeting for a cup of coffee or a meal.
How many businesses send an actual thank you card as opposed to a thank you email?
I’ve received many automated messages from companies or manufacturers asking me for a survey as opposed to an actual person getting my opinion.
This post is not bashing modern technology, or social media. That would be hypocritical of me at the most extreme level.
Yes a Facebook Wall Post, a Twitter DM or @reply, an email, a text message might be faster or easier. . . but is faster or easier always better?
I think not.
I say let’s transfer those online connections that are on our computer monitor or cellular phone LCD and make them offline real world connections ensuring the human element is never forgotten.
