Types of Communication in Business

Learning Goals State the definition of communication State the difference between one-way communication and two- way communication State the vertical and lateral communication channels Explain the three major communication media: written, oral and electronic by giving examples

What is communication? Communication is about sending and receiving information or the transmission of information and meaning from one party to another through using shared symbols.

Communication process model © PhotoDisc Sender MessageChannelMediumReceiver Feedback

One-way and two-way communication Information flows only in one direction – from the sender to the receiver with no feedback Information flows only in one direction – from the sender to the receiver with no feedback A much common way of communication because it is faster and easier for the sender and there is no trouble from disagreement. A much common way of communication because it is faster and easier for the sender and there is no trouble from disagreement. There may be mistakes in transmission of information. There may be mistakes in transmission of information. One-way communication

One-way and two-way communication A process in which information flows in two-directions –the receiver provides feedback and the sender receptive to the feedback. It is more accurate and fewer mistakes in transmission. But it is time-consuming and more difficult for the sender. Two-way communication

Channels of communication Vertical communication channels Lateral communication: © PhotoDisc

Channels of Communication Information passes downwards or upwards in the organization. Downward communication means that the manager tells employees about a decision that has been already made. It allows decisions to carried out quickly. Upward communication refers to employees’ giving feedback to the manager about the decision. It helps managers to understand employees’ ideas on the decision. Vertical communication

Channels of Communication People in the same level within an organization pass information to each other. It can strengthen the understanding and coordination between people in different departments. Vertical communication Lateral communication

Channels of communication Vertical and lateral communication © PhotoDisc Board of directors Financial dept. Marketing dept. Employees

Communication Media Written communication media Oral communication media Electronic communication media © PhotoDisc

Communication media Communication through: Letters,Memos, Reports, Forms, Notice boards and Internal magazines or newspapers Messages can be revised several times. The sender can not receive immediate feedback. Written communication

Communication Media Face-to-face discussions, telephone conservations, formal presentations and speeches Advantages: Questions can be asked and answered directly; feedback is immediate; and the sender’s attitude can be sensed. Disadvantages: few permanent records Written communication Oral communication

Communication Media Communication through electronic media such as mobile phone, paging devises, lap top computers, , fax machines, and electronic notice boards Messages can be delivered instantly, over long distances, and to a large number of people. But not all people have can access to the media. Written communication Oral communication Electronic communication © PhotoDisc