Communication

What is Communication? The process of exchanging information, ideas, and feelings between a sender and a receiver

Why is it important? Helps to develop positive interpersonal relations Helps to conduct successful business activities

The Six Primary Elements of Communication 1.Senders and Receivers 2.Messages 3.Channels 4.Feedback 5.Blocks (Barriers) 6.Setting

Senders and Receivers Every message must be sent, received, and understood Two kinds of communication –Verbal : speaking and writing –Non-verbal : facial expressions and body language (gestures, movements, and mannerisms)

Verbal Communication Involves the use of WORDS –Reading –Writing –Listening –Speaking All of these skills are necessary to be successful in business

Verbal Communication Reading and Writing Skills In work situations, people are expected to read, write, and understand many types of written materials MemosBooks InstructionsLetters RequestsReports

Verbal Communication Listening Skills Active listening is the process of giving the speaker some type of feedback that indicates the messages are being received and understood –A nod, smile, or simple direct eye contact

Verbal Communication Speaking Skills Used in: –One on one conversations –Group settings –Presentations Speaking clearly helps your audience receive the message correctly Your quality of speech influences others impressions of you.

Non-Verbal Communication The sending and receiving of messages without using words –Body language –Physical appearance –Pictures/Drawings –Flags

Messages The substance of any form of communication (the information the sender wants to share) Avoid nonstandard language (slang) to ensure that your message is understood

Channels The avenues by which the message is delivered –Face to Face – –Telephone –Faxes –Business Letters

Feedback The receivers response to the message Allows the participant to clarify the message and know that both parties are clear

Blocks (Barriers) Something that interferes with understanding the message Three primary blocks –Distractions: noises, conversations –Emotional blocks: when a listeners biases interfere –Planning a response

Setting Where communication takes place Should be size appropriate depending on the size of the group Should have minimal distractions

Why is this important…to me? Studies have shown that 70% of our waking hours are spent communicating Most jobs in business, particularly marketing, require good communication skills