Communication Flashcards
What is Communication
The two-way process that enables information to be disseminated between two or more people. It is the exchange of ideas, facts and emotions.
Communication Process
Message –> Source/Sender –> Encoding –> Channel –> Decoding –> Receiver –> Feedback
Communication Process Cont’d
Message- is information that the sender wants to transmit
Sender - person or group that initiates the communication process
Encoding - is the process by which the process is symbolized to facilitate transmission.
Channel - means which the sender transmits a message/ medium of communication
Decoding - occurs for the message to be understood.
Receiver - Person or group for whom the communication effort is intended.
Feedback - information on the receiver’s perception of the sender’s message.
Types of Communication
Verbal (via the use of words) - can be spoken or within
Non-Verbal - without words or speech (eg. body language, gestures & pictures)
Formal - use of established channels of communication in the organization
Informal - eg. grapevine, does not take into consideration formal channels but is done through employees
Channels of Communication
Oral Communication
Written Communication
Visual Communication
Non-Verbal Communication
What is Oral Communication
The use of spoken words when communicating, face to face or over the phone.
Advantages of Oral Communication
Usually quick
Allows for immediate feedback
Flexible and can be easily adjusted
The sender can use powers of persuasion
Offers direct contact between the sender and receiver
Disadvantages of Oral Communication
Little time to think of feedback
Lacks record unless tape recorded
More susceptible
Influence by non-verbal clues
Written Communication
This includes the use of letters, memos, bulletins, reports and notices and is best suited for formal communication
Advantages of Written Communication
All records can be kept
information can be sent to people who are in different locations
better organization of message
suitable for complex messages e.g dismissal of staff
Disadvantages of Written Communication
Time consuming in terms of preparation
Feedback is slower
Impersonal
Sometimes more expensive than oral
Does not offer immediate clarification
Visual Communication
transmission of information that can be seen or read
Advantages of Visual Communication
Helps to simplify oral and written communication
Suitable for communication over long distances
People tend to remember visual images and audio
Enables complex info to be communicated
Electronic Communication
Sending of written , oral or visual messages by electronic means e.g emails,text
Advantages of Electronic Communication
faster to transmit information
relatively cheap besides initial cost
receiver can give instant feedback
allows you to work remote
