What is one potential drawback of audio conferencing?

One potential drawback of audio conferencing is that conversations may be misinterpreted. This happens because, in an audio-only setting, non-verbal cues such as facial expressions, gestures, and body language are absent. These cues provide essential context in communication and help clarify intent and emotion. Without them, participants may struggle to discern tone, leading to misunderstandings or incorrect assumptions about what someone means or how they feel about a topic. This ambiguity is particularly significant in nuanced discussions where emotions and emphatic gestures play a crucial role. Thus, the lack of visual information can hinder effective communication, making it a noteworthy drawback of audio conferencing.