Key definition
Effective communication — a message where the information is received and understood by the receiver.
Why is effective communication important?
- Decisions are made faster
- Chances of mistakes and accidents are reduced
- Changes in the market are responded to quicker
- Strengthening teamwork between workers
- Increasing employee motivation
Types of communication
- Internal communication — communication between members of a business
- External communication — communication between the business and 'outsiders' e.g. suppliers
Communication methods
| Method | Examples | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|
| Visual | Pie charts, graphic drawings, line graphs | Aesthetically appealing; a visual idea of a project is clear | Information may not be clear; information is not detailed |
| Oral | Face to face communication | Allows immediate feedback; two-way communication | There may be problems with the receiver; there is no permanent record |
| Written | Letters, notes | Permanent record; message can be detailed; can be sent to multiple receivers | No personal contact; no immediate feedback; time consuming |
| Electronic | Emails, text messages, phone calls | Permanent record (for some); can be sent to multiple receivers | No personal contact; must have access to the internet |
Communication barriers
| Barrier | Problems caused | How to reduce/remove the barrier |
|---|
| Type of medium | The message may not allow instant feedback or may be easily ignored by the recipient | Consider the importance of the message, the need for a permanent record, the cost of the medium, the confidentiality of the medium, and the number of recipients |
| Language | The recipient may not be able to understand the message and it may be unclear even after translation | Ensure the language used for the message is suitable, or hire a translator for reliability |
| Length of message | The receiver may not be able to take in a large amount of information, or the main message may be lost | Keep the message short and concise where necessary, getting the key points across |
| Problem with recipient | The recipient may not want to listen to the sender due to grudges or a personal issue | Relay the message to a suitable recipient, or ask for immediate feedback to ensure the recipient understands |
| Problem with environment | The message can get lost if the environment is noisy and distracting | Along with a suitable medium, choose an appropriate environment |