Business Communication

Only available on StudyMode
  • Download(s): 38
  • Published: January 16, 2013
Read full document
Text Preview

Communication is the exchange of thoughts, messages, or information, as by speech, visuals, signals, writing, or behavior. Derived from the Latin word "communis", meaning to share. Communication requires a sender, a message, and a recipient, although the receiver need not be present or aware of the sender's intent to communicate at the time of communication. Thus, communication can occur across vast distances in time and space. The communication process is complete once the receiver has understood the message of the sender.

Effective Communication

All communications, intentional or unintentional, have some effect. This effect may not be always in communicator's favor or as desired by him or her. Communication that produces the desired effect or result is effective communication. It results in what the communicator wants. Effective communication generates the desired effect, maintains effect & increases effect. Effective communication serves its purpose for which it was planned or designed. The purpose could be to generate action, inform, create understanding or communicate a certain idea/point etc. Effective communication also ensures that message distortion does not take place during the communication process.

Barriers to Effective Communication


There also can be a lack of determining "knowledge appropriate" communication, as when someone uses ambiguous legal words, or medical jargon, when speaking with another person that lacks understanding in these areas. Effective communication can be achieved only when the words used are brought to a common level of understanding for both parties.

Some of these barriers are mentioned below :-

Physical Barriers

Physical barriers are often due to the nature of the environment. Thus, for example, the natural barrier which exists, if staff are located in different buildings or on different sites. Likewise, poor or outdated equipment, particularly the failure of management to introduce new technology, may also cause problems. Staff shortages are another factor which frequently causes communication difficulties for an organization.

System Design


Attitudinal Barriers


Ambiguity of Words/Phrases


Individual Linguistic Ability

The use of jargon, difficult or inappropriate words in communication can prevent people from understanding the message....
tracking img