Communication

Question 1

Can you define what communication is?

Answer 1

The imparting of or exchanging of information by speaking, writing or using some other medium

Question 2

What are the main types of communication?

Answer 2

Verbal - Verbal comms means using speech to share information with other people
Nonverbal - means exchanging information face to face without using speech e.g. smiling, hand gestures and posture
Written - Exchanging information with others using words and numbers
Visual - Exchanging information using visual aids such as graphs or charts

Question 3

Please provide some advantages of written comms?

Answer 3

Complex and technical information can be communicated in a precise and explicit manner
It creates a record of information
Reliable way to formalise agreements
Info can be circulated to many parties quickly

Question 4

Disadvantages of written comms?

Answer 4

Less personal than oral communication, making it less ideal for emotional messages
Language/tone may be lost in translation/misconstrued
You will not know if the recipient has fully understood the communication

Question 5

Can you provide some typical attributes of effective communication?

Answer 5

The message is short and precise
clear, easy to read and understand
well structured with an introduction, substance and conclusion
the recipient understand the message without ambiguity

Question 6

You chair a meeting, how do you ensure the meeting is effective?

Answer 6

Set an agenda and keep the meeting on track
Prep for it in advance, have docs, info and visuals at the ready
Be punctual for the meeting
Take meeting minutes
Give everyone opportunity to speak and contribute
Use effective body language to enhance communication

Question 7

Whats the difference between effective and efficient communication?

Answer 7

Efficient comm is information that is presented in a clear and concise manner, reducing effort and waste
Effective comm is to accomplish a purpose, produce the intended or expected result

Question 8

What are the barriers to communication?

Answer 8

Differences in viewpoint and perception
Body language can distract people, meaning they miss vital parts of verbal comms
Language or cultural differences
different time zones or locations
Use of jargon, overly complicated, unfamiliar and/or technical terms

Question 9

Can you explain what is meant by body language and can you provide an example?

Answer 9

Non-verbal communication that can often have hidden messages, usually the body that does the talking for example crossing your arms when communcating to somebody can present a defensive or reluctant message

Question 10

Can you name some types of body language and explain their attributes?

Answer 10

Passive - Defeated posture, over apologetic, no eye contact
Assertive - Firm but friendly, relaxed and balanced hand gestures, maintaining a comfortable distance
Aggressive - Tense, invading space, loud, clenched fists