Video Conferencing with Skype

It is commonly known that when text messaging or emailing, the loss of non-verbal cues can be very detrimental to the interpretation of the information being shared.  So much of how we interact really relies on the cues that we send with our face and body language and not so much with the words that we say.  We hear emphasis, cadence, tones and see eye-contact, slow or rapid body movements, and hand gestures.  We can even see how the person is breathing or sighing to show a sign of disinterest or liking! All of these human expressions are what matters most and seems to be getting lost with all of these online and phone written messages lacking our non-verbal cues!  As the business world seems to be getting more important every day, the stimulation of information is demanded at a much faster rate and we all can’t physically be in one place at one time, but we can online. What better way to replace emails and phone calls with online and video conferencing which offers a face-to-face connection when using a great site and application called Skype!

The application Skype is very known but is also a great useful tool that allows individuals or groups to come together and see each other and their faces while verbally talking.  This can be especially essential for business meetings and conferences or for school. In the article “Effective Meetings via videoconferencing” by Sandra Sharer, she describes how videoconferencing for sharing ideas and giving presentations can really be useful for our business world. She explains that videoconferencing will increase the overall productivity of an organization and will cut down on the miscommunication between all parties involved! To support how much we rely on non-verbal cues, Sharer states that “when we communicate, 10% of the meaning is contained in the words we choose; 20% is contained in the style of delivery; 70% is contained in non-verbal cues or body language. That's why videoconferencing can be so much more effective than a voice-only conference call.” The engagement of interaction between people allows for an “80% chance for common understanding between all parties” when communicating face-to-face.

The affordance of this application is the ability for others around the world to hold conference meetings or exchange business ideas without having the cost of air plane tickets, hotels, and the dragging out duration of time to complete their desired task.  Skype allows users to stay within the comfort of their realms while getting business done.  Skype also offers the ability to stay on the application even when it is closed so you can always be reached and called. Skype can be used on a cell phone, your portable laptop, iPad or Tablet, and home PC. Wherever you are, you can always get business done in a way that is more understandable and comprehensive to you all because you have a face-to-face connection with others. Sharer provides tips that one should know the technology for fluent and confidence use and to position the cameras in the best angles possible so it suits the interpretation of the receiving parties better.  Remember, visual aspects in video-conferencing are important! The way you dress, your slow or rapid movement, tone and facial expression are all important just as they are in real life which is why it keeps all parties accountable to a real life situation and in good practice, but allowing people to cut down on cost, time, and miscommunication! Skype can be a great tool for businesses and even family members who don't often get to travel to see one another the opportunity to re-connect and stay close.  Whether you need it for your job or for your personal life, Skype offers an all around purpose for your need in life and gives you greater communication and understanding of each other.