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The human moment at work.

E M Hallowell1

  • 1Harvard Medical School, MA, USA. ehallowell@aol.com

Harvard Business Review
|May 27, 1999
PubMed
Summary

Technological advancements reduce face-to-face interactions, risking the loss of essential "human moments." Restoring authentic connection is crucial for workplace trust and confidence, despite the convenience of virtual communication.

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Area of Science:

  • Psychiatry
  • Organizational Psychology
  • Communication Studies

Background:

  • Modern technology, including voicemail and email, has significantly reduced the necessity for face-to-face interactions.
  • Increased remote work and virtual communication contribute to a decline in in-person contact.
  • This shift poses a risk to the 'human moment,' defined as authentic psychological encounters occurring in shared physical space.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the potential negative consequences of diminished face-to-face interaction.
  • To emphasize the importance of the 'human moment' in professional relationships.
  • To explore strategies for reintroducing face-to-face contact in organizations.

Main Methods:

  • The study is based on clinical observations and case examples from a psychiatrist specializing in anxiety disorders.
  • It analyzes misunderstandings arising from over-reliance on technology in business communication.
  • It presents anecdotal evidence of successful interventions to restore in-person contact.

Main Results:

  • Over-reliance on technology leads to misinterpretations and misunderstandings (e.g., misconstrued emails, misdirected voicemails).
  • These communication breakdowns, though individually minor, accumulate to negatively impact individuals and organizations.
  • Organizations that strategically reintroduce face-to-face contact report positive outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • The absence of the 'human moment' can have destructive effects on trust and confidence.
  • Restoring authentic, in-person interactions is vital for individual well-being and organizational health.
  • Strategic implementation of face-to-face contact enhances workplace dynamics and mitigates risks associated with virtual communication.

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