Effective Communication: Elements, Types, and Challenges

Elements of Communication

Message: Information, ideas, or feelings to be conveyed.

Code: Specific signs or symbols used to express the message.

Issuer: Person transmitting the message, expecting a response.

Channel: Medium through which the message is passed.

Context: Situation enabling understanding of the message's meaning.

Feedback: Receiver's response to the sender.

Receiver: Person receiving the message.

Formal vs. Informal Communication

Formal

Structured, follows hierarchy, used for official orders.

Informal

Spontaneous, flexible, not following established systems.

Upward Communication

Aims

• Understand staff problems and complaints.
• Encourage employee involvement.
• Obtain feedback on projects.

Downward Communication

Aims and Means

Convey instructions, policies, and objectives to employees.

Horizontal Communication

Example

Administration department workshop to solve computer system issues.

Oral Communication

Advantages

• Immediate feedback
• Personal contact
• Fast and agile
• Clarifies doubts

Disadvantages

Message not recorded, easily distorted.

Written Communication

Advantages

Message is recorded, less prone to distortion or forgetting.

Nonverbal Communication

Description: Voluntary and involuntary body or facial expressions, voice volume, emphasis.

Stereotype Example

Generalizations classifying people based on group characteristics.

Halo Effect Example

Impression of a person influencing judgment of their other traits.