5-76. Any means other than face-to-face communication present some risk for misunderstanding due to the lack of verbal and non-verbal cues. Building rapport and trust is an ongoing, long-term effort that occurs during unit formation, individual unit reception, day-to-day garrison operations, and training exercises. It continues during operational missions. Learning what key leaders and staff mean when they say or write something is key to creating a basis for shared understanding. Taking adequate time to communicate when forming relationships is important to setting the right conditions, as are brief backs to confirm intent. Speaking candidly and asking for clarification when necessary are important steps in creating shared understanding. Email, websites, and social media have increased the volume and speed of available information. However, they minimize verbal cues and lack the non-verbal cues that are vital to clear communications and shared understanding between people. Leaders need to guard against over-reliance upon electronic means to communicate with each other and with subordinates. Leaders should use face-to-face communications with subordinates as much as possible to ensure understanding and to observe the feedback cues given by listeners.