The Importance Of Effective Communication In The Workplace

Communication is described as a two way process whereby a message is sent from a sender to a receiver with the intention for a clear message being transmitted and understood. Success is seen as the receiver providing feedback to the sender.

Effective communication is fundamental in every organisation, as it is directly related to the success of the organisation. However for effective communication to be achieved, the organisation would need to ensure that effective managers are hired, communication is two sided, clear, simple, transparent and unambiguous throughout all the channels of communication.

The significance of effective communication is as follows:

• If communication is used to create a clear message and to brand the organisation,

Managers who are good communicators get the most out of their teams and this has a positive impact on the organisation.

• In countries, like South Africa, where there is a diverse workforce, effective communication is extremely important in removing barriers to get the best out of its people. A diverse workforce has huge benefit as it brings people with different backgrounds and ideas together to work towards a common goal. However, effective communication is important for this type of workforce to be successful.

In closing, effective communication is significant in business because it helps with profit, the businesses products and services, the hiring of staff, internal communication, staff recognition and morale as well as productivity.

1.2 The communication process is a highly complex one. With the use of a diagram, depict and discuss this process (15).

The linear communication model is the process whereby a sender, using a code and medium communicates a message to a receiver in a way that is both received and understood. Using the linear communication model, a sender would communicate a message in a specific code, such as a language, using a specific channel or medium, for example an email, to the receiver who in turn would provide feedback as a result of the message. During this process, both parties may experience “noise” which is described as communication

It is the receiver’s responsibility to use active listening when receiving the message. This means putting themselves in the sender’s shoes and actively listening for the meaning of the message.

• Feedback: This is the result of the message and the receiver is responsible for the feedback to the sender either orally, written or non-verbally.

• Code: The sender will choose to send the message in a specific “code” such as a language. To assist in the communication process, the sender should always use simple language to keep the message clear and understandable.

• Medium: The channels used to the send the message, such as an email. Using multiple channels to communicate the message will aid in the process as repetition helps to convey the message to ensure the receiver understands it.

• Noise: These are barriers which hinder the message or prevent the message from being sent or received. There are different types of barriers such as physical, physiological, psychological, perceptual, intercultural and semantic barriers to name a