Page 1
Learners will be able to-
1. Explain process of communication.
2. Recognise types of communication.
3. Understand and apply varied structures and networks in communication.
4. Use techniques of skilled communication.
5. Recognise and address barriers in communication.
w Dene communication.
w Elucidate types of communication.
w Explain process of communication.
w Describe varied networks in communication.
w State benets and characteristics of eective communication.
w Understand barriers in communication.
1
CHAPTER
COMMUNICATION
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
“Communication (from Latin communicare, meaning “to share”) is a process of exchanging information,
ideas, thoughts, feelings and emotions through speech, signals, writing, or behavior. In communication
process, a sender (encoder) encodes a message and then using a medium/ channel sends it to the receiver
(decoder) who decodes the message and after processing information, sends back appropriate feedback/
reply using a medium/channel. ” (Source: ggu.ac.in)
The main steps inherent to all communication are:
1. The purpose or reason for the communication.
2. The contents of the message.
3. The medium used for conveying the message. (For example, internet, written text, speech, pictures,
gestures and so on).
4. Transmitting the message.
GOALS
Page 2
Learners will be able to-
1. Explain process of communication.
2. Recognise types of communication.
3. Understand and apply varied structures and networks in communication.
4. Use techniques of skilled communication.
5. Recognise and address barriers in communication.
w Dene communication.
w Elucidate types of communication.
w Explain process of communication.
w Describe varied networks in communication.
w State benets and characteristics of eective communication.
w Understand barriers in communication.
1
CHAPTER
COMMUNICATION
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
“Communication (from Latin communicare, meaning “to share”) is a process of exchanging information,
ideas, thoughts, feelings and emotions through speech, signals, writing, or behavior. In communication
process, a sender (encoder) encodes a message and then using a medium/ channel sends it to the receiver
(decoder) who decodes the message and after processing information, sends back appropriate feedback/
reply using a medium/channel. ” (Source: ggu.ac.in)
The main steps inherent to all communication are:
1. The purpose or reason for the communication.
2. The contents of the message.
3. The medium used for conveying the message. (For example, internet, written text, speech, pictures,
gestures and so on).
4. Transmitting the message.
GOALS
1.2
BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTING
5. Messages are often misinterpreted due to external disturbances such as noise created by humans,
trac and natural forces. These factors can result in miscommunication.
6. Receiving the message.
7. Deciphering and making sense of the message. Decode.
8. Interpreting and guring out what the receiver thinks is the real message.
Process of Communication
Sender
Barrier
Channel
Feedback
Receiver
Decoding
Encoding
Channel
Noise
Message
TYPES OF COMMUNICATION
A good understanding of the dierent types and styles of communication can enhance your personal
and professional relationships, resolve any misunderstandings and misconceptions, and contribute to a
successful business venture and a joyful personal life.
Every person has his/ her personal style of interacting with others. In the process of communication, an
individual uses manifold channels to convey the message. However, the eectiveness of the communication
style depends upon whether the receiver has accurately interpreted the intended idea thought, feelings
etc. Sometimes, the speaker reveals more than he/ she wished to convey through tone, gestures etcetera.
Therefore, it is important to understand the dierent modes of communication.
THE BROAD CATEGORIES OF COMMUNICATION ARE
Based on communication channels-
1. Verbal
2. Non verbal
3. Visual
Page 3
Learners will be able to-
1. Explain process of communication.
2. Recognise types of communication.
3. Understand and apply varied structures and networks in communication.
4. Use techniques of skilled communication.
5. Recognise and address barriers in communication.
w Dene communication.
w Elucidate types of communication.
w Explain process of communication.
w Describe varied networks in communication.
w State benets and characteristics of eective communication.
w Understand barriers in communication.
1
CHAPTER
COMMUNICATION
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
“Communication (from Latin communicare, meaning “to share”) is a process of exchanging information,
ideas, thoughts, feelings and emotions through speech, signals, writing, or behavior. In communication
process, a sender (encoder) encodes a message and then using a medium/ channel sends it to the receiver
(decoder) who decodes the message and after processing information, sends back appropriate feedback/
reply using a medium/channel. ” (Source: ggu.ac.in)
The main steps inherent to all communication are:
1. The purpose or reason for the communication.
2. The contents of the message.
3. The medium used for conveying the message. (For example, internet, written text, speech, pictures,
gestures and so on).
4. Transmitting the message.
GOALS
1.2
BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTING
5. Messages are often misinterpreted due to external disturbances such as noise created by humans,
trac and natural forces. These factors can result in miscommunication.
6. Receiving the message.
7. Deciphering and making sense of the message. Decode.
8. Interpreting and guring out what the receiver thinks is the real message.
Process of Communication
Sender
Barrier
Channel
Feedback
Receiver
Decoding
Encoding
Channel
Noise
Message
TYPES OF COMMUNICATION
A good understanding of the dierent types and styles of communication can enhance your personal
and professional relationships, resolve any misunderstandings and misconceptions, and contribute to a
successful business venture and a joyful personal life.
Every person has his/ her personal style of interacting with others. In the process of communication, an
individual uses manifold channels to convey the message. However, the eectiveness of the communication
style depends upon whether the receiver has accurately interpreted the intended idea thought, feelings
etc. Sometimes, the speaker reveals more than he/ she wished to convey through tone, gestures etcetera.
Therefore, it is important to understand the dierent modes of communication.
THE BROAD CATEGORIES OF COMMUNICATION ARE
Based on communication channels-
1. Verbal
2. Non verbal
3. Visual
1.3
COMMUNICATION
Based on purpose and style-
1. Formal
2. Informal
1. Verbal: Verbal communication involves the use of words and language in delivering the intended
message. Though ‘verbal’ primarily refers to communication through the spoken medium, while
categorizing ‘types’ of verbal communication the written and oral form of communication are included.
• W ritt en c ommunic a tion includes letters and documents, e-mails, reports, handbooks, brochures,
various chat platforms, SMS and any form of written interaction between people. The written
form of communication is essential and indispensable for formal business interactions (contracts,
memos, press releases, formal business proposals etc.) and legal instructions and documentation.
The eectiveness of written communication depends on the writing style, grammar, vocabulary,
and clarity.
• Oral C ommunic a tion refers to communication through the spoken word, either face-to-face,
telephonically, via voice chat, video conferencing or any other medium. Formal medium like lectures,
conferences, seminars, meetings and informal conversations, chit-chat, gossip etc are part of oral
communications. Eective of oral communication depends on clear speech and the tone used by
the speaker. Speaking in too high/ low volume or too fast/slow can also impair communication
between people. Even non-verbal communications such as body language and visual cues eect
the quality of interaction among individuals or group.
Verbal communication is the easiest, fastest, and the most successful form of communication.
Yet, surprisingly according to research, it comprises of only seven percent of all human
communication!
2. Nonverbal Communication: Nonverbal communication is the process of communicating by sending
and receiving wordless messages. These messages can aid verbal communication, convey thoughts
and feelings contrary to the spoken words or express ideas and emotions on their own. Some of the
functions of nonverbal communication in humans are to complement and illustrate, to reinforce and
emphasize, to replace and substitute, to control and regulate, and to contradict the denoted message.
• Physical nonverbal communication: An individual’s body language that is, facial expressions,
stance, gestures, tone of voice, touch, and other physical signals constitute this type of
communication. For example, leaning forward may mean friendliness, acceptance and interest,
while crossing arms can be interpreted as antagonistic or defensive posture.
Research estimates that physical, non-verbal communication accounts for 55 percent of all
communication. Smiles, frowns, pursing of lips, clenching of hands etc. transmit emotions which
are not expressed through verbal communication.
• P ar alanguage: The way you say something, more than the actual words used, reveal the intent
of the message, The voice quality, intonation, pitch, stress, emotion, tone, and style of speaking,
communicates approval, interest or the lack of it. Research estimates that tone of the voice accounts
for 38 percent of all communications.
• A esthetic c ommunic a tion: Art forms such as dancing, painting, sculptor, music are also means of
communication. They distinctly convey the ideas and thoughts of the artist.
• A pp ear anc e: Appearance is usually the rst thing noticed about a person. A well dressed and
groomed person is presumed to be organized and methodical, whereas a sloppy or shabby person
Page 4
Learners will be able to-
1. Explain process of communication.
2. Recognise types of communication.
3. Understand and apply varied structures and networks in communication.
4. Use techniques of skilled communication.
5. Recognise and address barriers in communication.
w Dene communication.
w Elucidate types of communication.
w Explain process of communication.
w Describe varied networks in communication.
w State benets and characteristics of eective communication.
w Understand barriers in communication.
1
CHAPTER
COMMUNICATION
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
“Communication (from Latin communicare, meaning “to share”) is a process of exchanging information,
ideas, thoughts, feelings and emotions through speech, signals, writing, or behavior. In communication
process, a sender (encoder) encodes a message and then using a medium/ channel sends it to the receiver
(decoder) who decodes the message and after processing information, sends back appropriate feedback/
reply using a medium/channel. ” (Source: ggu.ac.in)
The main steps inherent to all communication are:
1. The purpose or reason for the communication.
2. The contents of the message.
3. The medium used for conveying the message. (For example, internet, written text, speech, pictures,
gestures and so on).
4. Transmitting the message.
GOALS
1.2
BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTING
5. Messages are often misinterpreted due to external disturbances such as noise created by humans,
trac and natural forces. These factors can result in miscommunication.
6. Receiving the message.
7. Deciphering and making sense of the message. Decode.
8. Interpreting and guring out what the receiver thinks is the real message.
Process of Communication
Sender
Barrier
Channel
Feedback
Receiver
Decoding
Encoding
Channel
Noise
Message
TYPES OF COMMUNICATION
A good understanding of the dierent types and styles of communication can enhance your personal
and professional relationships, resolve any misunderstandings and misconceptions, and contribute to a
successful business venture and a joyful personal life.
Every person has his/ her personal style of interacting with others. In the process of communication, an
individual uses manifold channels to convey the message. However, the eectiveness of the communication
style depends upon whether the receiver has accurately interpreted the intended idea thought, feelings
etc. Sometimes, the speaker reveals more than he/ she wished to convey through tone, gestures etcetera.
Therefore, it is important to understand the dierent modes of communication.
THE BROAD CATEGORIES OF COMMUNICATION ARE
Based on communication channels-
1. Verbal
2. Non verbal
3. Visual
1.3
COMMUNICATION
Based on purpose and style-
1. Formal
2. Informal
1. Verbal: Verbal communication involves the use of words and language in delivering the intended
message. Though ‘verbal’ primarily refers to communication through the spoken medium, while
categorizing ‘types’ of verbal communication the written and oral form of communication are included.
• W ritt en c ommunic a tion includes letters and documents, e-mails, reports, handbooks, brochures,
various chat platforms, SMS and any form of written interaction between people. The written
form of communication is essential and indispensable for formal business interactions (contracts,
memos, press releases, formal business proposals etc.) and legal instructions and documentation.
The eectiveness of written communication depends on the writing style, grammar, vocabulary,
and clarity.
• Oral C ommunic a tion refers to communication through the spoken word, either face-to-face,
telephonically, via voice chat, video conferencing or any other medium. Formal medium like lectures,
conferences, seminars, meetings and informal conversations, chit-chat, gossip etc are part of oral
communications. Eective of oral communication depends on clear speech and the tone used by
the speaker. Speaking in too high/ low volume or too fast/slow can also impair communication
between people. Even non-verbal communications such as body language and visual cues eect
the quality of interaction among individuals or group.
Verbal communication is the easiest, fastest, and the most successful form of communication.
Yet, surprisingly according to research, it comprises of only seven percent of all human
communication!
2. Nonverbal Communication: Nonverbal communication is the process of communicating by sending
and receiving wordless messages. These messages can aid verbal communication, convey thoughts
and feelings contrary to the spoken words or express ideas and emotions on their own. Some of the
functions of nonverbal communication in humans are to complement and illustrate, to reinforce and
emphasize, to replace and substitute, to control and regulate, and to contradict the denoted message.
• Physical nonverbal communication: An individual’s body language that is, facial expressions,
stance, gestures, tone of voice, touch, and other physical signals constitute this type of
communication. For example, leaning forward may mean friendliness, acceptance and interest,
while crossing arms can be interpreted as antagonistic or defensive posture.
Research estimates that physical, non-verbal communication accounts for 55 percent of all
communication. Smiles, frowns, pursing of lips, clenching of hands etc. transmit emotions which
are not expressed through verbal communication.
• P ar alanguage: The way you say something, more than the actual words used, reveal the intent
of the message, The voice quality, intonation, pitch, stress, emotion, tone, and style of speaking,
communicates approval, interest or the lack of it. Research estimates that tone of the voice accounts
for 38 percent of all communications.
• A esthetic c ommunic a tion: Art forms such as dancing, painting, sculptor, music are also means of
communication. They distinctly convey the ideas and thoughts of the artist.
• A pp ear anc e: Appearance is usually the rst thing noticed about a person. A well dressed and
groomed person is presumed to be organized and methodical, whereas a sloppy or shabby person
1.4
BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTING
fails to make a favourable impression. Therefore, dressing appropriately in all formal interactions is
emphasized.
The dress code in oce is generally formal. It constitutes of formal suits, trousers with plain white or
light coloured shirts and leather shoes. Bright colours, jeans, T- shirts, especially with slogans and
other informal wear are frowned upon. For women formal two-piece trouser or skirt sets or formal
ethnic wear like sarees, is permissible.
• S ymb ols such as religious, status, or ego-building symbols
3. Visual Communication: Visual communication through visual aids such as signs, typography,
drawing, graphic design, illustration, color and other electronic resources usually reinforces written
communication. Sometimes, it may replace written communication altogether. Visual communication
is powerful medium. It is the reason that the print and audio-visual media makes eective use of visuals
to convey their message. Visuals like graphs, pie charts and other diagrammatic presentations convey
clearly and concisely a great deal of information. They are an essential part of ocial presentations
these days.
Formal & Informal Communication
Eective communication and free ow of information within a company is crucial for its success. Thus, well
structured formal communication channels need to be established in every organization.
Informal channels of communication are equally important for the health of the company. Most verbal
communications between friends, family and community are informal and casual in nature.
1. Formal communication: Formal communication, both oral and written, follows certain rules, principles
and conventions in conveying the message. The hierarchy in the organization has to be followed. Formal
format, style and language have to be used. The communication pattern can be vertical, horizontal or
diagonal.
• V er tic al: Information can ow upwards or downwards in the organization. Data that is collected
ows up to the top levels of management for review and decision making, while instructions and
orders are passed down from the management/ seniors to the subordinates for implementation.
• H oriz on tal: Horizontal communication that involves communication between two parts of the
organization at the same level. For example, the managers of a project in a company may hold a
regular daily, weekly or monthly meeting to discuss the progress of the project.
• D iagonal: Cross-functional communication between employees at dierent levels of the
organizational hierarchy is described as diagonal communication. Diagonal communication is
increasingly common in larger organizations. It reduces the chances of distortion or misinterpretation
by encouraging direct communication between the relevant parties. For example, a junior engineer
reports directly to the General Manager regarding the progress on the project.
2. Informal communication: Informal Communication is the casual, friendly and unocial. It is
spontaneous conversation and exchange of information between two or more persons without
conforming to the prescribed ocial rules, processes, systems, formalities and chain of command.
Informal communication is between family, friends, neighbours, members of the community and other
social relations that are based on common interests, tastes and dispositions. Information can ow from
any source in any direction.
Employees in an organization interact with each other outside the formal domain. . Such communication
is called ‘grapevine’ - gossip in the oce. Employees of dierent departments and varied levels meet and
Page 5
Learners will be able to-
1. Explain process of communication.
2. Recognise types of communication.
3. Understand and apply varied structures and networks in communication.
4. Use techniques of skilled communication.
5. Recognise and address barriers in communication.
w Dene communication.
w Elucidate types of communication.
w Explain process of communication.
w Describe varied networks in communication.
w State benets and characteristics of eective communication.
w Understand barriers in communication.
1
CHAPTER
COMMUNICATION
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
INTRODUCTION
“Communication (from Latin communicare, meaning “to share”) is a process of exchanging information,
ideas, thoughts, feelings and emotions through speech, signals, writing, or behavior. In communication
process, a sender (encoder) encodes a message and then using a medium/ channel sends it to the receiver
(decoder) who decodes the message and after processing information, sends back appropriate feedback/
reply using a medium/channel. ” (Source: ggu.ac.in)
The main steps inherent to all communication are:
1. The purpose or reason for the communication.
2. The contents of the message.
3. The medium used for conveying the message. (For example, internet, written text, speech, pictures,
gestures and so on).
4. Transmitting the message.
GOALS
1.2
BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTING
5. Messages are often misinterpreted due to external disturbances such as noise created by humans,
trac and natural forces. These factors can result in miscommunication.
6. Receiving the message.
7. Deciphering and making sense of the message. Decode.
8. Interpreting and guring out what the receiver thinks is the real message.
Process of Communication
Sender
Barrier
Channel
Feedback
Receiver
Decoding
Encoding
Channel
Noise
Message
TYPES OF COMMUNICATION
A good understanding of the dierent types and styles of communication can enhance your personal
and professional relationships, resolve any misunderstandings and misconceptions, and contribute to a
successful business venture and a joyful personal life.
Every person has his/ her personal style of interacting with others. In the process of communication, an
individual uses manifold channels to convey the message. However, the eectiveness of the communication
style depends upon whether the receiver has accurately interpreted the intended idea thought, feelings
etc. Sometimes, the speaker reveals more than he/ she wished to convey through tone, gestures etcetera.
Therefore, it is important to understand the dierent modes of communication.
THE BROAD CATEGORIES OF COMMUNICATION ARE
Based on communication channels-
1. Verbal
2. Non verbal
3. Visual
1.3
COMMUNICATION
Based on purpose and style-
1. Formal
2. Informal
1. Verbal: Verbal communication involves the use of words and language in delivering the intended
message. Though ‘verbal’ primarily refers to communication through the spoken medium, while
categorizing ‘types’ of verbal communication the written and oral form of communication are included.
• W ritt en c ommunic a tion includes letters and documents, e-mails, reports, handbooks, brochures,
various chat platforms, SMS and any form of written interaction between people. The written
form of communication is essential and indispensable for formal business interactions (contracts,
memos, press releases, formal business proposals etc.) and legal instructions and documentation.
The eectiveness of written communication depends on the writing style, grammar, vocabulary,
and clarity.
• Oral C ommunic a tion refers to communication through the spoken word, either face-to-face,
telephonically, via voice chat, video conferencing or any other medium. Formal medium like lectures,
conferences, seminars, meetings and informal conversations, chit-chat, gossip etc are part of oral
communications. Eective of oral communication depends on clear speech and the tone used by
the speaker. Speaking in too high/ low volume or too fast/slow can also impair communication
between people. Even non-verbal communications such as body language and visual cues eect
the quality of interaction among individuals or group.
Verbal communication is the easiest, fastest, and the most successful form of communication.
Yet, surprisingly according to research, it comprises of only seven percent of all human
communication!
2. Nonverbal Communication: Nonverbal communication is the process of communicating by sending
and receiving wordless messages. These messages can aid verbal communication, convey thoughts
and feelings contrary to the spoken words or express ideas and emotions on their own. Some of the
functions of nonverbal communication in humans are to complement and illustrate, to reinforce and
emphasize, to replace and substitute, to control and regulate, and to contradict the denoted message.
• Physical nonverbal communication: An individual’s body language that is, facial expressions,
stance, gestures, tone of voice, touch, and other physical signals constitute this type of
communication. For example, leaning forward may mean friendliness, acceptance and interest,
while crossing arms can be interpreted as antagonistic or defensive posture.
Research estimates that physical, non-verbal communication accounts for 55 percent of all
communication. Smiles, frowns, pursing of lips, clenching of hands etc. transmit emotions which
are not expressed through verbal communication.
• P ar alanguage: The way you say something, more than the actual words used, reveal the intent
of the message, The voice quality, intonation, pitch, stress, emotion, tone, and style of speaking,
communicates approval, interest or the lack of it. Research estimates that tone of the voice accounts
for 38 percent of all communications.
• A esthetic c ommunic a tion: Art forms such as dancing, painting, sculptor, music are also means of
communication. They distinctly convey the ideas and thoughts of the artist.
• A pp ear anc e: Appearance is usually the rst thing noticed about a person. A well dressed and
groomed person is presumed to be organized and methodical, whereas a sloppy or shabby person
1.4
BUSINESS CORRESPONDENCE AND REPORTING
fails to make a favourable impression. Therefore, dressing appropriately in all formal interactions is
emphasized.
The dress code in oce is generally formal. It constitutes of formal suits, trousers with plain white or
light coloured shirts and leather shoes. Bright colours, jeans, T- shirts, especially with slogans and
other informal wear are frowned upon. For women formal two-piece trouser or skirt sets or formal
ethnic wear like sarees, is permissible.
• S ymb ols such as religious, status, or ego-building symbols
3. Visual Communication: Visual communication through visual aids such as signs, typography,
drawing, graphic design, illustration, color and other electronic resources usually reinforces written
communication. Sometimes, it may replace written communication altogether. Visual communication
is powerful medium. It is the reason that the print and audio-visual media makes eective use of visuals
to convey their message. Visuals like graphs, pie charts and other diagrammatic presentations convey
clearly and concisely a great deal of information. They are an essential part of ocial presentations
these days.
Formal & Informal Communication
Eective communication and free ow of information within a company is crucial for its success. Thus, well
structured formal communication channels need to be established in every organization.
Informal channels of communication are equally important for the health of the company. Most verbal
communications between friends, family and community are informal and casual in nature.
1. Formal communication: Formal communication, both oral and written, follows certain rules, principles
and conventions in conveying the message. The hierarchy in the organization has to be followed. Formal
format, style and language have to be used. The communication pattern can be vertical, horizontal or
diagonal.
• V er tic al: Information can ow upwards or downwards in the organization. Data that is collected
ows up to the top levels of management for review and decision making, while instructions and
orders are passed down from the management/ seniors to the subordinates for implementation.
• H oriz on tal: Horizontal communication that involves communication between two parts of the
organization at the same level. For example, the managers of a project in a company may hold a
regular daily, weekly or monthly meeting to discuss the progress of the project.
• D iagonal: Cross-functional communication between employees at dierent levels of the
organizational hierarchy is described as diagonal communication. Diagonal communication is
increasingly common in larger organizations. It reduces the chances of distortion or misinterpretation
by encouraging direct communication between the relevant parties. For example, a junior engineer
reports directly to the General Manager regarding the progress on the project.
2. Informal communication: Informal Communication is the casual, friendly and unocial. It is
spontaneous conversation and exchange of information between two or more persons without
conforming to the prescribed ocial rules, processes, systems, formalities and chain of command.
Informal communication is between family, friends, neighbours, members of the community and other
social relations that are based on common interests, tastes and dispositions. Information can ow from
any source in any direction.
Employees in an organization interact with each other outside the formal domain. . Such communication
is called ‘grapevine’ - gossip in the oce. Employees of dierent departments and varied levels meet and
1.5
COMMUNICATION
discuss matters casually and informally. The grapevine satises the social needs of the people and helps in
building relationships. It is also useful in addressing certain needs and grievances of employees.
NETWORK IN COMMUNICATION
A communication network refers to the method and pattern used by members of an organisation to pass
on information to other employees in the organization. Network helps managers create various types of
communication ow according to requirement of the task at hand. Some companies have established and
predened networks of communication for specied venture.
The structure of communication within a company depends upon the size of the organisation, type of
communication channels in the organisation and the number of persons involved in the process. There can
be many patterns of communication network.
The most common networks followed in organisations are the following:
1. Vertical Network:
The vertical network is a formal network. It is usually between a higher ranking employee and a subordinate.
In this two-way communication, immediate feedback is possible.
Supervisor
Subordinate
Vertical Network
2. Circuit Network:
When two persons communicate with each other sending messages and feedback, they form a
communication circuit. Therefore it is known as circuit network. The two people interacting can be colleagues
placed at the same hierarchical level in the organization.
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