Communication

Skills
Source: Comex: The Communications Experience in Human Relations (1984, South-Western Publishing Company)
What is communication?
Communication is how we give and receive information and convey our
ideas and opinions with others.

The communication process starts when the sender (someone who sends a

message) makes a decision (whether they are aware or not) to share the message
with a receiver (someone who interprets the message).
 Sending a Message
Every communicative act is
based on sending a message,
something that expresses a
meaning.
A message can be either
verbal (spoken or written) or
nonverbal (body language,
physical appearance, or vocal
tone).
Messages are also influenced by
the context—or place and time—
in which they are sent.
For example, the place and
time you choose to make a
critical comment to someone
will make a big impact on
how it will be received.
Receiving a
Message
Messages are sent and received through
mediums called communication channels.
Messages can be seen, heard,
touched, tasted, or smelled.  
The two most frequent
communication channels used are
sight and sound.

When the receiver gets the message, he

or she will usually give a return
message, or feedback.

Thus, the communications process is

ongoing.
Barriers to
Communication
Messages aren’t always received the way
they are intended. Barriers to
communication are always present.
A barrier is anything that distorts a
message.

Examples of communication barriers:

Language (unclear wording, slang, tone).
Contradictions between body language
and spoken message.
Choosing the wrong communication
channel.
Poor listening skills.
 On-Going Process of
Communication

Feedback

Message
Sender Receiver
Barriers

Feedback
Being a Good
Communicator
Successful communicators take
responsibility by ensuring that receivers
understand what they are saying.

A successful communicator:
Recognizes communication barriers.
Considers the needs of their
audience.
Understands the context they’re
communicating in.
Speaks in simple, effective, and
understandable terms.
Asks for feedback.
Effective
Listeners
Effective listening is active participation
in a conversation.

A passive listener is attentive but does

nothing to assist the speaker.

Active listeners:
Sit or stand alertly
Maintain eye contact with the speaker
Concentrate on the speaker’s words
Make verbal responses
Summarize parts of what has been said
when clarity is needed
Listen to understand, not to respond