Communication Competency Flashcards
In communication, any factor that can disrupt the sending and receipt of a message—for example, physical factors such as loud environments, cultural factors such as a distinctive accent, or cognitive factors such as the use of unfamiliar jargon.
Noise
Components of a message apart from its words. This could include physical gestures and posture and vocal tones, volume, and speed.
Nonverbals
Communication technique to increase the engagement between communicators and their audiences. It involves two-way communication and attention to nonverbal signs that indicate interest and reactions to the message and speaker.
Active listening
Process of constructing a message so that an audience sees communicated facts in a certain way and is persuaded to take a certain action.
Framing
Provides immediate verbal and nonverbal feedback
Useful for complex, sensitive issues (such as conflicts, negotiations, problem solving)
BUT
Takes time
Requires good listening skills
Requires care to avoid conveying wrong message
Face-to-face (or small group)
Provides more opportunity for feedback, questions
BUT
Requires good listening skills since there are no visual cues
Faces more competition for attention
Takes more time
Phone call
Saves time (when used to relay content, not make direct contact)
BUT
Does not provide feedback or confirmation of understanding
Voice mail
Saves time (no travel required)
Allows participants to attend remotely
Saves money
Makes scheduling easier
Can be used to host live events
Encourages focus
BUT
Potential technical issues (Internet connections, substandard equipment)
Missing in-person communication cues
Overuse leading to burnout
Can be time-consuming
Video-conferencing
Saves sender time
Allows detail
Includes multiple parties easily
Documents communication
BUT
Requires more care to create accurate message and convey correct tone
Does not necessarily provide desired feedback
Can be missed or perceived as nuisance
Saves time for both parties
Can be broadcast to announce information (for example, promotional, emergency)
BUT
Limits content that can be communicated
Can be missed or perceived as intrusive
Short messaging (for example, texting, chat)
Can be broadcast to large audiences
Reaches certain audiences efficiently and can elicit immediate feedback (for example, quick surveys)
BUT
May not reach all audiences
Requires review since the message will be widely viewed
Social media
Allows full presentation of topic
Can reach a large audience and encourage thoughtful responses
Provides documentation of communication
BUT
Takes time and care to create
May need to conform to organizational expectations (templates)
Takes time to get a response
Written report
Can allow immediate questions and feedback and adjustment of message
Can incorporate visuals, video, handouts
BUT
Requires skill and time to practice
Requires time and expense to create support materials
Oral presentation
Promotes leadership visibility and accessibility
Encourages and improves engagement
Promotes collaborative teamwork
Can reinforce culture and values
BUT
Can be complex to plan and organize
Requires comfort in public situations to participate
Town hall meeting
