Public Speaking Essentials

Essential Components of Communication

Source: The originator of the message; in public speaking, it is the speaker who conveys information through content, tone of voice, body language, and appearance. The process of transforming thoughts into communication is termed encoding.
Message: The core stimulus or meaning produced by the source intended for the receiver. It goes beyond just spoken or written words, encompassing grammar, organization, tone, appearance, and contextual factors that influence the effectiveness of communication.
Channel: The medium through which messages travel between the source and the receiver. Modern communication channels include face-to-face conversations, emails, text messages, social media, radio, and written reports.
Receiver: The individual who interprets the message from the source. Receipt of the message involves various senses and the process of decoding, which turns communication into thoughts.
Feedback: The response from the receiver back to the source. Feedback can be verbal or nonverbal, providing insights into how well the message was understood and allowing for clarification or adjustments.
Environment: The physical and psychological setting in which communication occurs, including the layout of the space, lighting, and overall ambiance. The environment can influence the nature of communication, such as fostering intimacy or promoting professionalism.
Context: The situational factors surrounding the communication, including the expectations shaped by the environment and the relationships between participants. Context affects language choice and behavior.
Interference/Noise: Any element that distorts or obstructs the intended meaning of the message. This includes external distractions like sounds and visual stimuli, as well as internal distractions such as psychological noise caused by biases or preoccupations. Environmental settings can also contribute to noise, impacting communication effectiveness.