Are You Coming Off Wrong in Emails and Zoom Calls? Here’s What to Do

Misunderstandings, awkward silences, and lost opportunities—virtual communication is full of hidden pitfalls. Here’s how to make sure your messages land the way you intend.

Over millions of years, we humans evolved for face-to-face communication, so most of us are pretty good at it. When we’re standing in front of another person, reading facial expressions, picking up on body language, and finding a conversational rhythm comes naturally.

But all of a sudden, that’s not how the world works. Emails, texts, and virtual meetings seem to dominate our days, forcing us to communicate without the social cues we instinctively rely on. And in a time when so much business happens online, even small missteps can lead to big misunderstandings.

Navigating this new reality is a challenge—but also an opportunity. Get it right, and you’ll stand out, strengthen relationships, and make sure your voice is heard.

Management professor and communication expert Andrew Brodsky has studied the nuances of digital interactions, and he offers up five key insights to help you navigate the digital workplace with confidence: