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Communication- meaning definition characteristics process barriers

Communication- meaning definition characteristics process barriers

22/June/2025 20:09    Share:   

Here is a complete and detailed explanation of Communication – its meaning, definition, characteristics, process, types, barriers, and ways to overcome barriers:
 
 
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✅ Meaning of Communication
 
Communication is the process of transmitting information, ideas, emotions, skills, and knowledge from one person to another. It helps people understand one another, make decisions, and take action.
 
 
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✅ Definition of Communication
 
> Keith Davis:
“Communication is the process of passing information and understanding from one person to another.”
 
 
 
> Newman and Summer:
“Communication is an exchange of facts, ideas, opinions or emotions by two or more persons.”
 
 
 
 
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✅ Characteristics of Communication
 
1. Two-way process: Involves sender and receiver.
 
 
2. Continuous process: Happens at all times in life and work.
 
 
3. Purposeful: Aims to inform, persuade, or build relationships.
 
 
4. Dynamic: Adapts based on situation and context.
 
 
5. Symbolic: Uses words, gestures, visuals, etc.
 
 
6. Contextual: Depends on environment, culture, and relationship.
 
 
7. Irreversible: Once sent, a message cannot be taken back.
 
 
 
 
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✅ Process of Communication
 
Step Description
 
1. Sender Person who creates and sends the message.
2. Message The idea, information, or feeling to be communicated.
3. Encoding Translating the message into words, gestures, or visuals.
4. Medium The channel (e.g., speech, email, letter) used to send the message.
5. Receiver The person for whom the message is intended.
6. Decoding The receiver interprets and understands the message.
7. Feedback Response or reaction sent back to the sender.
8. Noise Any barrier or disturbance that affects understanding.
 
 
 
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✅ Types of Communication
 
1. Based on Channel:
 
Verbal Communication: Spoken or written words (e.g., meetings, emails).
 
Non-Verbal Communication: Body language, gestures, eye contact, posture.
 
 
2. Based on Flow:
 
Downward Communication: From superior to subordinate.
 
Upward Communication: From subordinate to superior.
 
Horizontal Communication: Between people of equal rank.
 
 
3. Based on Purpose:
 
Formal Communication: Follows official channels (e.g., reports, memos).
 
Informal Communication: Casual talk (e.g., grapevine, chat).
 
 
4. Based on Direction:
 
Internal Communication: Within the organization.
 
External Communication: With customers, suppliers, stakeholders.
 
 
 
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✅ Barriers to Effective Communication
 
Type of Barrier Examples
 
Physical Barriers Noise, poor internet, distance.
Language Barriers Use of difficult terms, jargon, or different languages.
Emotional Barriers Stress, anger, mistrust.
Cultural Barriers Differences in values, beliefs, customs.
Perceptual Barriers Misunderstanding due to assumptions or bias.
Organizational Barriers Poor structure, unclear hierarchy, lack of feedback.
 
 
 
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✅ Ways to Overcome Communication Barriers
 
1. Use Clear Language – Avoid jargon; use simple, understandable words.
 
 
2. Active Listening – Pay full attention, give feedback, and ask questions.
 
 
3. Effective Feedback – Encourage two-way communication.
 
 
4. Cultural Sensitivity – Be respectful of differences in background and values.
 
 
5. Proper Medium – Choose the right channel for your message (email, call, etc.).
 
 
6. Encourage Openness – Build trust and transparency.
 
 
7. Training and Development – Offer communication skills workshops.
 
 
8. Minimize Noise – Ensure quiet, focused environments for communication.
 
 
 
 
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✅ Summary Table
 
Concept Key Points
 
Communication Exchange of messages for mutual understanding
Process Sender → Message → Encoding → Channel → Receiver → Decoding → Feedback
Types Verbal, Non-verbal, Formal, Informal, Upward, Downward, Horizontal
Barriers Language, emotional, physical, cultural, perceptual
Solutions Clear message, active listening, correct medium, cultural awareness
 
 


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