Communication Overview Basics

Communication Overview

• Communication is the exchange of ideas, information, thoughts, and feelings.
• The communication process involves a sender, encoding, a message, decoding, a receiver, and feedback. Noise can interfere with the process.
• Two main types of communication channels are verbal and nonverbal.

Verbal Communication

• Verbal communication transmits messages orally or in writing.
• Formal verbal communication often follows the KISS principle (Keep It Short and Simple).
• Verbal communication includes oral and written communication.

Oral Communication

• Oral communication uses spoken words.
• Includes face-to-face communication, phone calls, videos, and radio.
• Effective oral communication is influenced by factors like tone, pitch, volume, speed, and clarity.
• Oral communication provides quick feedback.

Written Communication

• Written communication uses written signs or symbols.
• Can include email, letters, reports, and memos.
• Written messages can be revised and offer a record.
• It is a common form of communication in business.
• Written communication doesn't offer instant feedback.

Nonverbal Communication

• Nonverbal communication is the use of wordless messages such as gestures, body language, posture, tone of voice, and facial expressions.
• It is about nonverbal cues.
• Four key elements include appearance, surrounding environment, body language, and sounds.

Levels of Communication

• Intrapersonal communication occurs within one's own mind.
• Interpersonal communication happens between two people.
• Small group communication involves interaction within a small group (formal or informal).
• One-to-group communication involves a speaker communicating with a larger audience.
• Mass communication reaches a very large audience through various electronic or print media like radio, television, and newspapers.

Communication Barriers

• Communication barriers prevent effective communication.
• Examples include physical barriers, perceptual barriers, emotional barriers, cultural barriers, language barriers, gender barriers, and interpersonal barriers.

Effective Communication Strategies

• Understanding the receiver, and tailoring the method of communication are crucial.
• Know your audience.
• The message should be crystal clear.
• Use multiple channels if appropriate.
• Be aware of personal communication styles, and focus on the receiver.
• Tips for effective communication include being brief, well-mannered, using proper language, being positive, being attentive, using clear terminology, pronouncing words correctly.