The LEArning Curve

That could’ve been an email…

In a digital world that allows for numerous methods of communication, various modes of instant electronic communication have radically changed the way we communicate with others, especially in schools. We rush to get information. We rush to respond. We have become accustomed to immediate access to information. Using the technology available, we often find ourselves being more efficient with communication, allowing for more information to be shared with great speed and efficiency.

But efficient doesn’t always mean effective. 

Of course, there are times when we walk out of staff meetings thinking, “That could’ve been an email…” and we may even complain that we would rather have used that time to prepare for tomorrow’s lesson or grade yesterday’s papers. When it comes to basic announcements, reminders, follow-ups, instructions, and the distribution of documents, well, yeah…that could have been an email. And as teachers and church workers, we all know our time is limited and precious.

But SHOULD it always be an email?

Our time is precious, and so are our relationships in Christ. We need to use that precious time to demonstrate value in our personal connections and relationships. That means we must prioritize the face-to-face and human connection of communication when it really matters. Although we might be dreading that difficult conversation where we might need to apologize, that is best handled face-to-face. We understand that electronic text, which is devoid of body language, can lead to greater misunderstanding. We might not appreciate the lengthy and unhinged “nasty gram” email that we got from *that* parent, but we know that reaching out for a personal conversation to calmly diffuse the situation is much more productive than sending a quick retort. In fact, in any situation where we might need to deal with complexities or speak the truth in love, we should set aside the efficiencies of electronic communication and instead embrace the personal connection of face-to-face communication.

So how can we know when to simply send the email and when to connect for a face-to-face meeting? Practice the pause. Pause and pray. Pause and reflect. Pause and consider what type of communication will best preserve and sustain the relationship. After all, that relationship in Christ is what our ministry is all about.

“Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace.”

Ephesians 4:2-3