Communication happens every day in various ways.

Communication can be a billboard, a

passing handshake on the way to work or a gesture in the elevator letting the people know the
door has opened. Communication is a complex process that involves a sender and a receiver.
The intention of communication is to send messages to inform, direct or educate. Effective
communication produces efficient businesses, productive relationships and satisfaction between
people.

Goal
The goal of effective communication is to send a message with the intention of
informing, inspiring or questioning, with the message fully understood by the recipient.
VIDEO OF THE DAY

Volume 0%

Brought to you by Techwalla

Brought to you by Techwalla

Media
Communication travels through different media. A common media is spoken words or
oral communication. Oral communication uses words to send messages and provide
explanations. Other media used in communication are nonverbal cues such as vocal
tone, facial expressions and body language. Sending an e-mail, talking on the phone or
updating a social network are all examples of different media used to send messages.

Outcome
Communication is used to make processes and organizational flow more productive.
When people know what is expected of them and how to accomplish the task at hand,
they are more likely to be more productive. People feel satisfied when they are able to
reach the goal of communicating effectively. This can be satisfaction with a job,
relationships or social life. Trust is built in interpersonal and organizational relationships
when the goal of effective communication is met. When a person does what he says he
will do, it fosters trust and dependability.

Barriers
Communication barriers exist that prohibit effective communication. These barriers can
include a person’s background, belief system, cultural differences, upbringing and
preconceived ideas. Communication barriers filter the communication and distort its
original message so that the recipient doesn’t understand the message.

Considerations
No one has perfected the goal of effective communication. A person should participate
in maintaining a healthy self-awareness that assesses her current rate of
communication effectiveness.
References

 University of Maine: Effective Communication

 University of California: Planning for Effective Communication
 FEMA: Effective Communication

About the Author

Nicole Papa has been a freelance writer since 2004 with a focus on SEO and Internet
marketing. She has written for instinctmarketing.com and JOLT! Marketing. She
graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in mass media
communications, and from the University of Texas with an associate degree in theater
performance.
Types of Communication Goals
1. Reputation - identity or perception of the organization
2. Relationship - how the organization interacts with their public(s)
3. Task - action items / getting things done