Effective communications - Essay Example

Effective Communication Defining communication Communication is the exchange of thoughts and ideas in an artful manner either thru words or non verbal signs. It expresses the personality of a person and of how we are. Communications have our perspectives (context), words we use (text) and our personal motivators (sub-text). Subtext is what we mean and feel expressed in the text. (Gordon, Jan, 2001)2 How can we communicate effectively?The rule is to be clear and concise on what we want to say.

It should be done in a tactful and respectful manner as it is a reflection of the personality of the sender. Our communication should be written or spoken in simple language to be easily understood. It will also help if we are cautious of the correct language usage and avoid vague terms. Communications should define our perspective like what is our motivation, what is our need, and what message do we want to conveyOne style of effective communication is using diversity and common ground. We should look for the interest and purpose of the person we are talking to establish rapport.

Even if you view differences of perspectives, honor that differences, incorporate it into your own for a powerful communication.Be careful to align your actions with what you are saying and with your intentions so as not to get wrong signals.There is a time that it is better to be silent when you are not sure of the relationship. For example, you should understand the topics that should be avoided in the organization, profession and even in personal relations. Conflict is an opportunity to learn more and add to our own diversity.

We should learn to accept other’s opinions and do not insist in our own.3. Barriers to effective communication? According to the College of Marin lecture, Chap. 1, there are barriers to communications. Sender should know the adaptability of the message to receiver and should recognize the needs, the status, and knowledge of the subject and language skills of the receiver. For instance, when someone is angry, you should listen for a while until he/she is able to express her feelings.

Next is when the receiver has the trouble to understand what the message means because of words chosen by sender.Lack of understanding on the subject, sender cannot explain clearly what he wants and receiver does not get the message clearly. For example, an angry customer cannot explain technicalities while sales people cannot answer.Another barrier is when a receiver gets too much information on a topic; he/she gets an overload and so stops reading the communication and loses interest.Emotional interference creates a barrier, as in if someone is filled with emotions like being angry, joyful, and tearful; he may not receive the intended message and may deliberately not hear them. (w.c. 470)ReferencesCollege of Marin.

Barriers to effective communication. Chapter 1 Lecture. Viewed 24 January 2010 Gordon, Jan. 2001. Top 10 Ways to Communicate Powerfully!http://www.qualitycoaching.com/Articles/communication.html