Why should you be cautious about using only texts and emails for communication?

Using only texts and emails for communication warrants caution primarily because these forms of communication lack nonverbal cues, which are critical for conveying context and emotion. Nonverbal cues include body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions—all of which contribute to a deeper understanding of the message being communicated. When communicating through texts and emails, the absence of these cues can lead to misunderstandings or incorrect interpretations of the intent or emotions behind the words. For example, a straightforward message might come across as rude or dismissive without the accompanying facial expressions or tone that would typically soften its impact in a face-to-face interaction.

Relying solely on text-based communication can therefore lead to ambiguity and potentially escalate conflicts or misinterpretations, as the recipient may not fully grasp the sender's intended meaning. This highlights the importance of being mindful about the medium used for communication, particularly in professional settings where clarity and rapport are crucial.