Communication: Formal, Informal, and Nonverbal Aspects

Elements of Communication

1. Message: Information, feelings, or ideas to be transmitted.

2. Code: A set of specific signs or symbols used to express the message.

3. Sender: The person transmitting the message and awaiting a response from the receiver.

4. Channel: The medium through which the message is transmitted.

5. Context: The situation in which communication occurs, enabling correct understanding of the message.

6. Feedback: The receiver's response to the sender after receiving the message.

7. Receiver: The person or people receiving the message.

Formal vs. Informal Communication

Formal Communication: Structured, planned, hierarchical, aiming to transmit orders, information, and organizational issues.

Informal Communication: Does not follow an established formal system; arises spontaneously and is flexible.

Upward Communication

Purpose: To understand employee problems and complaints, their involvement in the company, and details of ongoing projects.

Downward Communication

Purpose: To give work instructions and inform employees about company policies, objectives, and tasks.

Oral Communication

Advantages

• Immediate feedback
• Personal contact
• Fast and efficient
• Clarification of doubts and questions

Disadvantages

• Message is not recorded and can be easily misinterpreted.

Written Communication

Advantages

• Message is recorded and harder to misinterpret.
• Suitable for situations requiring careful consideration and review.
• Allows for more precise language.

Disadvantages

• No immediate feedback or informal contact.
• Can feel colder and less personal.

Nonverbal Communication

Description: Involuntary or voluntary body or facial expressions.

Stereotypes

Generalizations used to classify people based on group characteristics, impacting personal image.

Halo Effect

A favorable or unfavorable impression of a person influences judgment of their other characteristics or attitudes.