Some people believe that face to face communication is always more powerful than written communication. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and include relevant examples.

Some people believe that face to face communication is always more powerful than written communication. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and include relevant examples.

IELTS ESSAY  FACE TO FACE OR WRITTEN 

When it comes to communication, people have traditionally relied on both written form, as well as face to face meetings. However, it is often profoundly debated by different schools of thought whether one mode outshines the other.  

It is undeniable that man being a social animal has overwhelmingly relied on going over and meeting acquaintances, and discussing matters in person. This helps afford clarity and maintain cohesiveness, both in professional and social terms, in exchange of views and opinions. When people are seated in front of each other, they do not only use oral and verbal form but also non-verbal expressions to transmit their feelings and responses. A personal meeting aids in eliminating  ambiguity, and many a  times faster resolution of problems.

Moreover, meeting in person can cut down the time wasted in communication considerably. When people preside over in a meeting they experience an instant exchange of views. This spontaneity can rarely be had when individuals write emails, letters, blogs and articles to name a few. Since one does not have to wait for their counterparts to respond.

However, some vouch for the written form as a formidable means of communication.  Their opinion stems from the fact that whatever is transmitted in the form of texts can be recorded and retained permanently. In their view, agreements cannot be arrived upon unless ratified and endorsed in written or printed content. This is why most of the legal documents, contracts are printed on paper to make the claims and agreements valid. 

In hindsight, I partially concur with the given statement since both these mediums are used abundantly by everyone. Hence, it can be said, they complement each other rather than superseding.