Janet, a manager, sends an e-mail warning Kevin, a subordinate, of disciplinary action to be taken if he continues to take long coffee breaks and spend too much time on personal phone calls. However, Kevin did not attach too much importance to the e-mail. He felt it was akin to a passing reminder. Which of the following is a reason why Janet should have spoken to Kevin directly and avoided the use of e-mail?
A) Electronic media leaves a permanent record of communication for later reference.
B) Electronic media encourages more people to participate and share their ideas with.
C) Electronic media prevents interpretation of subtle nonverbal cues conveyed by a sender.
D) Electronic media increases time and expenses related to traveling, photocopying, and mailing.
E) Electronic media is an ineffective tool for communicating routine messages.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Direct communication, such as speaking face-to-face, allows the sender to convey subtle nonverbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language, which can help to reinforce the importance and urgency of the message. Email eliminates these cues and could lead the recipient to believe that the issue is not as serious as it actually is.

Janet, a Manager, Sends an E-Mail Warning Kevin, a Subordinate