2.6 - Communication Flashcards
what is communication
when information is exchanged from one individual to another individual
what are the two forms of communication
- formal communication
- informal communication
formal communication definition
the exchange of information and ideas within and outside a business using official channels
informal communication definition
the exchange of information and ideas using unofficial channels
examples of formal communication
- annual report
- business meeting
examples of informal communication
- gossip
- social events
pros of informal communication
- improves working relationships
- gaining immidiate feedback (speed)
- job satisfaction - managing stress
cons of informal communication
- higher likelihood of inaccurate information (spreads fast)
- possibly contradictory to formal communication
what is internal vs external communication
internal communication is communication within a company, external communication is when a company may want to send a message to the outside (consumers/organisations)
eg. details of job vacancies or advertising
examples of speech communication
- phone call
- meeting
- presentation
- interview
pro of speech communication
- more emotion - can read individual
- less likely to misinterpret what is being said
- easier to build trust
- provides audio and visual information as well
example of written communication
- reports
- business letters
- memoranda
pro of written communications
- physical record
- suitable for formal situations
examples of electronic communication
- website
- social networking media
- text messages
- web chats and chatbots
- video conferencing
- instant messaging tools
pros of electronic communication
- fast
- easier to overcome geographical barriers
- provides a paper trail
examples of visual communication
- posters
- symbols (eg. nikes tick)
- information retained before is remembered through images and symbols
what are barriers to communication
obstacles that disrupt the effective exchange of information
examples of barriers to communication
- Changes in business practices
- Inappropriate management and leadership styles
- Business growth
- Lack of understanding by managers
- Excessive use of jargon or technical terms
- Assumptions
- cultural/language differences
- technological barriers
- resistance to change
how can businesses overcome barriers to communication?
- recognising difference in culture and language
- use clear and appropriate language
- invest in effective technology
- Train employees in communication skills
- Avoiding the generation of too much information
