CH3 - The Nine Axioms of Communication Flashcards
What are the Nine Axioms of Communication?
- Communication is not simply an exchange of information, but an interaction between people
- All communication involves an element of relation as well as content
- Communication takes place within a context of ‘persons, objects, events, and relations’
- Communication is the principal way by which we establish ourselves and maintain credibility
- Communication is the main means through which we exert influence
- All communication involves an element of interpersonal risk
- Communication is frequently ambiguous: what is unsaid can be as important as what is said
- Effective communication is audience-centred, not self-centred
- Communication is pervasive: you cannot not communicate
These axioms are derived from MacLennan (2009)
Define ‘axiom’ in the context of communication.
A universal principle or foundational truth that operates across cases or situations
MacLennan (2009) defines it as an inescapable principle in communication.
What does ‘footing’ refer to in communication?
The foundation upon which your credibility rests in a given interaction
Understanding your footing helps in determining appropriateness in communication.
What is ‘credibility’ in the context of communication?
The quality of being trusted and believed in, often established through actions
Effective communication plays a crucial role in establishing credibility.
What does ‘face loss’ mean in communication?
The risk of damaging one’s social identity or reputation in an interaction
This can occur due to negative feedback or miscommunication.
Fill in the blank: Communication is not simply an exchange of information, but an _______.
[interaction between people]
Fill in the blank: All communication involves an element of _______ as well as content.
[relation]
True or False: Communication is only about the content of the message.
False
What is the principal way by which we establish our credibility?
Communication
Effective communication is crucial for establishing a professional reputation.
What are the three elements of relation in communication?
- Establishing a relationship
- Maintaining a relationship
- Harming a relationship
Each element influences how we communicate and the outcomes of those communications.
What should you consider to determine whether your footing is appropriate?
- Proper credentials
- Correspondence to your role in the situation
- Audience recognition
All three criteria must be met to establish effective footing.
What does Axiom 3 state about communication?
All communication takes place within a context of ‘persons, objects, events, and relations’
Understanding context is key to effective communication.
What does Axiom 4 emphasize about communication?
Communication is a principal way of establishing ourselves and maintaining credibility
Your actions in communication directly influence your professional reputation.
Fill in the blank: Communication is the main means through which we exert _______.
[influence]
What is the impact of effective communication on professional success?
It is crucial for establishing credibility and influencing others
Effective communication leads to better opportunities and professional relationships.
What is the role of ambiguity in communication?
What is unsaid can be as important as what is said
Ambiguity can lead to misunderstandings if not addressed.
True or False: Effective communication is self-centered.
False
What should you do to mitigate potential harm in communication?
Consciously choose what you say and how you say it
Maintaining relationships is essential in communication.
What is the significance of understanding your audience in communication?
It helps tailor your message to be more effective and appropriate
Audience-centered communication is a key principle of effective messaging.
What is the first scenario your team might face as a team lead?
The team is feeling frustrated, working individually without understanding how their parts impact the larger project.
What is the second scenario your team might encounter?
The team is making progress but won’t meet the deadline; a new member, David, is introduced, but the team is resistant to his help.
What does Axiom 6 state about communication?
All communication involves an element of interpersonal risk.
What is ‘face’ in the context of communication?
Face is who we want the world to perceive us as and how we want to present ourselves.
True or False: We often project a more competent face than we actually feel.
True.
What is ‘face loss’?
The experience of being judged negatively, which can lead to embarrassment or humiliation.
What is Axiom 7 regarding communication?
Communication is frequently ambiguous: what is unsaid can be as important as what is said.
What can create ambiguity in communication?
- Unstated assumptions
- Non-verbal cues
- Accidental communication.
Fill in the blank: Effective communication is ______-centred, not self-centred.
[audience]
What does it mean to be audience-centered in communication?
To think carefully about the audience’s expectations and how they might react to the message.
What is Axiom 9 about communication?
Communication is pervasive: you cannot not communicate.
What does it mean that communication is pervasive?
Everything we do within a relational dynamic will be read as some type of message.
What are the Nine Axioms of Communication?
Universal, interconnected principles that guide effective communication.
What impact does establishing, maintaining, or harming a connection have?
It can have a long-lasting impact on the relationship.
How can ambiguity complicate a message?
Leaving information out can result in miscommunication.
What is crucial for successful communication?
Crafting messages that are audience-centered.
What happens when a supervisor sees an employee on a break?
The supervisor may misinterpret the situation, affecting the employee’s face.
What might happen if an employee frequently arrives late?
They risk losing face and being perceived as unprofessional.
What can happen if a team member complains excessively?
They may alienate coworkers and damage their professional relationships.
What is lexical ambiguity?
When certain words take on multiple parts of speech, creating confusion.
