Jaron Lanier, who is considered the "father of virtual reality", points out an emerging phenomenon which he calls "bizarre intimacy". He suggests video conferencing technology may threaten nonverbal communication, which is key to discussion, and he has some evidence to support his claim.
Eye contact impairment
Probably the most obvious fact is that video hangouts restrict eye contact. This is due to a simple technical limitation: it is not possible to place the camera and display the screen in the same position as the user's line of vision. True, looking into the camera will give the impression of looking into a person's eyes; if, however, you look directly into someone's eyes on screen, it will appear to the other person that you are looking away. Thus for the most part the two of you will be looking past each other. Eye contact is key in communication because you thus show you are paying attention to other side.
All imperfections are visible
This will not always happen if you are communicating with a counterpart using a lower resolution device. Sometimes, however, your image will be projected onto a large screen that magnifies every detail. Any imperfections thus acquire larger dimensions, as will any other distracting elements in the picture. Moreover, instead of sitting face-to-face with the caller, you often look up or down on the screen, which also does not help much with mutual contact.
Still under surveillance
Even without eye contact, video conference participants often have the uncomfortable feeling of being quietly watched or examined by others. Thus, we feel a need continually to adjust our appearance, such as hair or face rotation to the monitor. This may have an adverse effect on our perception of shared information.
Raising the voice
In a face-to-face conversation we can adapt our speech to the conditions and environment. In the online world, however, this may not be the case. Sounds are compressed and transmitted, while background noise gives the impression we need either to speak louder or mute the sound. As a result our attention is split between listeners and technical settings.
Despite the specific aspects of online communication, companies will probably have to learn to accept this new way of sharing information as a normal part of work, study and social life. The use of technology for mutual communication will continue to increase.
In order to improve the online conversation experience, try, for example, placing the camera at eye level so that your image looks natural. Choose a seamless, well-lit background with no distracting elements, and use headphones and quiet communication space to improve sound quality.
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