Theme: Advantages and disadvantages of online and offline sources. The development of online education

Age also plays a part in preference, with each generation having its own favourites and least liked. It’s critical to use the right channels to connect with the right groups – the wrong ones may be missed, ignored, unappreciated, or even considered rude.

The silent generation (pre-1946) and the Baby Boomers (1946-1964) both prefer face-to-face and telephone calls over anything else, although Boomers are generally okay with email, too.

Generation X (1965-1980) is most comfortable with social media, but they tend to think of it as a personal platform. Email is their preferred medium for communication.

Millennials (1981-2000) love the instant connection that comes with social media, texting, and email.

Finally, Generation Z (post-2000) is the first generation of digital natives. Social media – especially newer platforms like Instagram and Snapchat – and instant messaging are their preferred channels for most communication.

Sometimes, the deciding factor is speed and convenience. If you’re offering social media as a communication channel, for example, you’d better be able to respond quickly. Close to half of people expect an answer or response in an hour or less.

We send about 293 billion emails, 23 billion text messages (SMS), and make over 12 billion phone calls every single day, among other channels. That’s a lot of communication going on and a lot of choices to be made in how you communicate.

Most of us carry a smartphone with us at all times, and we spend hours online every day. Online communication as a whole seems to be taking over as the de facto king of the castle – but is it the best choice?

Maybe, maybe not. As with everything in life, there are pros and cons. So, what are the advantages and disadvantages of online communication compared to offline communication?

Here’s a closer look.