COMMUNICATION

-By Mrs.Moumita Pal-Sharma

Definition
Communication implies exchange of information and understanding among people. It involves transmission and reception of messages via people and process. So, there must be some information to be conveyed, there must be two or more persons- one to deliver the message and other to receive it. Communication is perfect only when the receiver understands the message in the sense the sender expected him to understand.

Importance of communication
It acts as basis for action Facilitates planning Helps in decision making. Acts as a means of coordination Improves relationship among peers, subordinates and superiors Improves employee morale and motivation.

Functions of Communication
Control member behavior

Foster motivation for what is to be done

Provide a release for emotional expression

Provide information needed to make decisions

Process of communication

 The steps between a source and a receiver that result in the transference and understanding of meaning (Exhibit 11-1) The Sender initiates message Encoding translating thought to message The Message what is communicated The Channel the medium the message travels through Decoding the receivers action in making sense of the message

The Receiver person who gets the message

Noise things that interfere with the message Feedback a return message regarding the initial communication

Channel
The medium selected by the sender through which the message travels to the receiver.

Types of Channels
Formal Channels
Are established by the organization and transmit messages that are related to the professional activities of members.

Informal Channels
Used to transmit personal or social messages in the organization. These informal channels are spontaneous and emerge as a response to individual choices.

Types of communication

Interpersonal Communication

Oral Communication

Written Communication

Nonverbal Communication

Verbal communication

Types of verbal communication

Oral

Written

Types of communication

Oral Communication

Advantages: Speed and feedback. Disadvantage: Distortion of the message. Advantages: Tangible and verifiable. Disadvantages: Time consuming and lacks immediate feedback. Advantages: Supports other communications and provides observable expression of emotions and feelings. Disadvantage: Misperception of body language or gestures can influence receivers interpretation of message.

Written Communication

Nonverbal Communication

Oral communication
It includes face to face discussions, speeches, television, radio, telephone conversations, seminars, videos etc.
Merits

Saves time Saves money More forceful Conveys shades of meaning Immediate clarification Immediate feedback Can be informal More effective with groups

Demerits Not possible for distant people in the absence of mechanical devices Unsuitable for lengthy messages Messages cannot be retained for long No legal validity Greater chances of misunderstanding