Communication is the process where the one person is expressing his or her idea and the other one

is listening to the idea being expressed by the one who is talking. That is how you define communication. When this results to have an understanding to both of them, therefore there is already a communication. In other words, when a person is talking, the other person should listen so that he will understand to what the other person is talking about. When a person talks and nobody listens, then there is no communication happening because there is no understanding. The people just heard what the person in front of them is talking but they do not listen to it well that is why they do not understand about the topic. I will give you further examples for you to understand what communication is. There is a seminar for teachers at the school gym. All of the teachers of the school attended the seminar. Knowledgeable personnel were invited to talk in front of the teachers to discuss to them the new method of writing an effective lesson plan. While the personnel are talking in front, his audiences were not listening to him carefully. The teachers are not listening well. So, no communication is happening to the people in the gym. How will the teachers know the new method of writing an effective lesson plan if they will not listen to the knowledgeable personnel? Their audiences should listen to them so that there will be an understanding and the teachers can able to write their lesson plans effectively. Another example is if you are talking to your boyfriend but he is not listening to you because he is very angry at you. If he will not listen to what you are talking about, there will no mutual understanding that will happen to both of you. If communication happens to both of you, the problem that you have will be solved. In these two situations we can firmly say that communication will not happen if the other person is not listening to what the other person is talking. Talking and listening as well as understanding are very important to have an effective communication. So now you can already define communication in your own words. Have an effective communication now to your family and friends. As a result, there will be no misunderstandings at all. Good luck in your practice of an effective communication.

Characteristics of Human Communication Human communication has several key characteristics.

The process of communication is continuous, ongoing, and dynamic. Communication begins with the self. Communication is irreversible, or unerasable. Communication is reciprocal. Communication is unrepeatable. Communication is transactional. Communication exists in some kind of context, or setting. o Interpersonal communication involves two individuals.

o o o

Group communication exists among three or more people who have some common purpose. Organizational communication occurs in a formal institution with a hierarchy, common goals, and individualized tasks. Mass communication with a population takes places through some form of public media.

Shannon's Model of the Communication Process

Shannon's (1948) model of the communication process is, in important ways, the beginning of the modern field. It provided, for the first time, a general model of the communication process that could be treated as the common ground of such diverse disciplines as journalism, rhetoric, linguistics, and speech and hearing sciences. Part of its success is due to its structuralist reduction of communication to a set of basic constituents that not only explain how communication happens, but why communication sometimes fails. Good timing played a role as well. The world was barely thirty years into the age of mass radio, had arguably fought a world war in its wake, and an even more powerful, television, was about to assert itself. It was time to create the field of communication as a unified discipline, and Shannon's model was as good an excuse as any. The model's enduring value is readily evident in introductory textbooks. It remains one of the first things most students learn about communication when they take an introductory communication class. Indeed, it is one of only a handful of theoretical statements about the communication process that can be found in introductory textbooks in both mass communication and interpersonal communication.

Figure 1: Shannon's (1948) Model of the communication process. Shannon's model, as shown in Figure 1, breaks the process of communication down into eight discrete components: 1. An information source. Presumably a person who creates a message. 2. The message, which is both sent by the information source and received by the destination. 3. A transmitter. For Shannon's immediate purpose a telephone instrument that captures an audio signal, converts it into an electronic signal, and amplifies it for transmission through the telephone network. Transmission is readily generalized within Shannon's information theory to encompass a wide range of transmitters. The simplest transmission system, that associated with face-to-face communication, has at least two layers of transmission. The first, the mouth (sound) and body (gesture), create and modulate a signal. The second layer, which might also be described as a channel, is built of the air (sound) and light (gesture) that enable the transmission of those signals from one person to another. A television broadcast would obviously include many more layers, with the addition of cameras and microphones, editing and filtering systems, a national signal distribution network (often satellite), and a local radio wave broadcast antenna. 4. The signal, which flows through a channel. There may be multiple parallel signals, as is the case in faceto-face interaction where sound and gesture involve different signal systems that depend on different

5.

6.

7. 8.

channels and modes of transmission. There may be multiple serial signals, with sound and/or gesture turned into electronic signals, radio waves, or words and pictures in a book. A carrier or channel, which is represented by the small unlabeled box in the middle of the model. The most commonly used channels include air, light, electricity, radio waves, paper, and postal systems. Note that there may be multiple channels associated with the multiple layers of transmission, as described above. Noise, in the form of secondary signals that obscure or confuse the signal carried. Given Shannon's focus on telephone transmission, carriers, and reception, it should not be surprising that noise is restricted to noise that obscures or obliterates some portion of the signal within the channel. This is a fairly restrictive notion of noise, by current standards, and a somewhat misleading one. Today we have at least some media which are so noise free that compressed signals are constructed with an absolutely minimal amount information and little likelihood of signal loss. In the process, Shannon's solution to noise, redundancy, has been largely replaced by a minimally redundant solution: error detection and correction. Today we use noise more as a metaphor for problems associated with effective listening. A receiver. In Shannon's conception, the receiving telephone instrument. In face to face communication a set of ears (sound) and eyes (gesture). In television, several layers of receiver, including an antenna and a television set. A destination. Presumably a person who consumes and processes the message.

Significant after World War II because:

The idea of source was flexible enough to include oral, written, electronic, or any other kind of symbolic generator-of-messages. Message was made the central element, stressing the transmission of ideas. The model recognized that receivers were important to communication, for they were the targets.

The notions of encoding and decoding emphasized the problems we all have (psycholinguistically) in translating our own thoughts into words or other symbols and in deciphering the words or symbols of others into terms we ourselves can understand.

Weaknesses:
Tends to stress the manipulation of the messagethe encoding and decoding processes it implies that human communication is like machine communication, like signal-sending in telephone, television, computer, and radar systems. It even seems to stress that most problems in human communication can be solved by technical accuracy-by choosing the right symbols, preventing interference, and sending efficient messages. But even with the right symbols, people misunderstand each other. Problems in meaning or meaningfulness often arent a matter of comprehension, but of reaction, of agreement, of shared concepts, beliefs, attitudes, values. To put the com- back into communication, we need a meaning-centered theory of communication.

Schramms Interactive Model, 1954

Background
Wilbur Schramm (1954) was one of the first to alter the mathematical model of Shannon and Weaver. He conceived of decoding and encoding as activities maintained simultaneously by sender and receiver; he also made provisions for a two-way interchange of messages. Notice also the inclusion of an interpreter as an abstract representation of the problem of meaning. (From Wilbur Schramm, How Communication Works, in The Process and Effects of Communication, ed. Wilbur Schramm (Urbana: University of Illinois Press, 1954), pp. 3-26):

The Importance Of Effective Communication In Business

by: Dominic Donaldson There are a multitude of problems in business that are caused by ineffective communication. Misunderstandings, conflict, giving your company a negative image, lower productivity. Communication skill is

the life blood of successful business enterprise and it takes many forms; internal and external, in writing, on the phone and in person. Effective communication within a company between departments and individual colleagues is essential for a productive working environment. Just as clear and professional communication with clients is imperative to secure and maximise business opportunities. This article deals with the fundamental principles of effective business communication skills. There are many elements that constitute effective communication. One of the primary considerations is the selection of the most appropriate method or medium. If you are communicating something which requires traceability then an email or letter can be best, while other conversations are much better had face-to-face and can appear impersonal and lackadaisical if carried out in writing. Every small piece of communication that comes from a company speaks volumes and makes an impact, whether it is good or bad, hence attention to detail is a major communication skill. Many organisations take for granted the ability to communicate effectively in writing or on the phone, however many employees might not have received specialist training in these disciplines. Communication skills training is essential as it provides a safe environment in which to review how a company and individuals within that company communicate, using expert guidance to develop those skills. Communication skills such as building a non-intrusive relationship swiftly on the phone, expressing oneself clearly and professionally in an email, or presenting in public with confidence can be improved by applying practical techniques and strategies. One of the best starting points for the process of developing communication skills is to examine your existing style, exploring how it affects others and might be improved. Although being direct and strong can be a good quality in some business situations it is essential to know who you are communicating with and be able to adapt your style to match theirs, it can have a disproportionate affect on a more sensitive member of the team or client. Equally, someone who appreciates a direct approach may not respond well to somebody being fluffy or giving lots of detail. Your chances of winning new business are hugely affected by the communication skills of you and your team. Proposal writing is an essential skill that can increase your client base and revenue if executed correctly, or lose you new business if done incorrectly. The key is communicating your core values, products and services in a clear, convincing and persuasive way meets the requirements of the potential client and is relevant to them. Similarly, a live sales pitch must be delivered with impact, confidence and clarity while being very focused on the needs of the client and what you can do to respond to their requirements. The only way to uncover a potential clients requirements is to establish a strong relationship by taking a genuine interest in their company and building rapport. You can then demonstrate more effectively how your proposal will benefit their structure, systems and procedures. Communication skills need to be developed on an ongoing basis: especially in a turbulent economic climate. By

outsourcing this to an external consultancy you can build strong foundations of effective internal and external communication that achieves lasting results.

BARRIERS TO EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

No matter how good the communication system in an organisation is, unfortunately barriers can and do often occur. This may be caused by a number of factors which can usually be summarised as being due to physical barriers, system design faults or additional barriers.

Physical barriers are often due to the nature of the environment.

Thus, for example, the natural barrier which exists, if staff are located in different buildings or on different sites. Likewise, poor or outdated equipment, particularly the failure of management to introduce new technology, may also cause problems. Staff shortages are another factor which frequently causes communication difficulties for an organisation. Whilst distractions like background noise, poor lighting or an environment which is too hot or cold can all affect people's morale and concentration, which in turn interfere with effective communication. System design faults refer to problems with the structures or systems in place in an organisation. Examples might include an organisational structure which is unclear and therefore makes it confusing to know who to communicate with. Other examples could be inefficient or inappropriate information systems, a lack of supervision or training, and a lack of clarity in roles and responsibilities which can lead to staff being uncertain about what is expected of them. Attitudinal barriers come about as a result of problems with staff in an organisation. These may be brought about, for example, by such factors as poor management, lack of consultation with employees, personality conflicts which can result in people delaying or refusing to communicate, the personal attitudes of individual employees which may be due to lack of motivation or dissatisfaction at work, brought about by insufficient training to enable them to carry out particular tasks, or just resistance to change due to entrenched attitudes and ideas.

Psychological factors such as people's state of mind. We all tend to feel happier and more
receptive to information when the sun shines. Equally, if someone has personal problems like worries about their health or marriage, then this will probably affect them. Different languages and cultures represent a national barrier which is particularly important for organisations involved in overseas business.

Individual linguistic ability is also important. The use of difficult or inappropriate words in
communication can prevent people from understanding the message. Poorly explained or misunderstood messages can also result in confusion. We can all think of situations where we have listened to something explained which we just could not grasp. Physiological barriers may result from individuals' personal discomfort, caused, for example, by ill health, poor eye sight or hearing difficulties. Presentation of information is also important to aid understanding.

non-verbal communication
Definitions (2)
1. Behavior and elements of speech aside from the words themselves that transmit meaning. Nonverbal communication includes pitch, speed, tone and volume of voice, gestures and facial expressions, body posture, stance, and proximity to the listener, eye movements and contact, and dress and appearance. Research suggests that only 5 percent effect is produced by the spoken word, 45 percent by the tone, inflexion, and other elements of voice, and 50 percent by body language, movements, eye contact, etc. 2. Transmission of messages by a medium other than speech or writing.

Types of Nonverbal Communication

1. Facial Expression Facial expressions are responsible for a huge proportion of nonverbal communication. Consider how much information can be conveyed with a smile or a frown. While nonverbal communication and behavior can vary dramatically between cultures, the facial expressions for happiness, sadness, anger and fear are similar throughout the world. 2. Gestures Deliberate movements and signals are an important way to communicate meaning without words. Common gestures include waving, pointing, and using fingers to indicate number amounts. Other gestures are arbitrary and related to culture. 3. Paralinguistics Paralinguistics refers to vocal communication that is separate from actual language. This includes factors such as tone of voice, loudness, inflection and pitch. Consider the powerful effect that tone of voice can have on the meaning of a sentence. When said in a strong tone of voice, listeners might interpret approval and enthusiasm. The same words said in a hesitant tone of voice might convey disapproval and a lack of interest. 4. Body Language and Posture Posture and movement can also convey a great deal on information. Research on body language has grown significantly since the 1970's, but popular media have focused on the over-interpretation of defensive postures, armcrossing, and leg-crossing, especially after the publication of Julius Fast's book Body Language. While these nonverbal behaviors can indicate feelings and attitudes, research suggests that body language is far more subtle and less definitive that previously believed. 5. Proxemics People often refer to their need for "personal space," which is also an important type of nonverbal communication. The amount of distance we need and the amount of space we perceive as belonging to us is influenced by a number of factors including social norms, situational factors, personality characteristics and level of familiarity. For example, the amount of personal space needed when having a casual conversation with another person usually varies between 18 inches to four feet. On the other hand, the personal distance needed when speaking to a crowd of people is around 10 to 12 feet. 6. Eye Gaze Looking, staring and blinking can also be important nonverbal behaviors. When people encounter people or things that they like, the rate of blinking increases and pupils dilate. Looking at another person can indicate a range of emotions, including hostility, interest and attraction. 7. Haptics Communicating through touch is another important nonverbal behavior. There has been a substantial amount of research on the importance of touch in infancy and early childhood. Harry Harlow's classic monkey study demonstrated how the deprivation of touch and contact impedes development. Baby monkeys raised by wire mothers

experienced permanent deficits in behavior and social interaction. Touch can be used to communicate affection, familiarity, sympathy and other emotions. 8. Appearance Our choice of color, clothing, hairstyles and other factors affecting appearance are also considered a means of nonverbal communication. Research on color psychology has demonstrated that different colors can invoke different moods. Appearance can also alter physiological reactions, judgment and interpretations. Just think of all the subtle judgement you quickly make about someone based on his or her appearance. These first impressions are important, which is why experts suggest that job seekers dress appropriately for interviews with potential employers.

What Is the Meaning of Verbal Communication

Overview
Verbal communication differentiates humans and makes them unique from all creatures. "Verbal communication involves using speech to exchange information with others," according to Jeff Butterfield, author of "Verbal Communication." By talking with another person or persons, you are verbally communicating. All humans need to interact, and the most obvious form of communication is verbal, or oral, communication. When you communicate verbally, you forge and maintain relationships, express opinions, share knowledge, improve businesses and develop an understanding of your culture.

Types of verbal Communication

1.

Oral Communication: Oral communication is information spoken by mouth; the use of speech. Some of the

examplesof Oral Communication are: Face to face communication,Telephonic Communication, Public Address System (Speech), Informal rumor mill (Grape Wine), Audio & Visual Media(Radio, TV), Lectures, ConferenceInterchange of views, Meetings, Cultural Affairs.

2.

Written Communication: Communication by means of written symbols (either printed or handwritten).

Some of the examples are: Orders, Instructions, Letters, Memos, Reports, Policy manuals, Information Bulletin, Complaint System, Suggestion System, etc

In a job interview, its all about how you answer the questions, right? Thats only half the story. Most candidates would be surprised to learn how much non-verbal communication (body language, facial expressions, etc.) matters. Some studies have shown that people form first impressions based 55% on body language and only 7% on actual verbal content. Actions really can speak louder than words. You start making a non-verbal impression from the moment you walk in the lobby door until the moment you leave. Some non-verbal mistakes can ruin your chances of a job offer even if your answers to the interview questions are impressive.

PREPARING TO MAKE A GREAT IMPRESSION Lets start with the basics: Your first impression. Beauty is only skin deep, but you will make a visual impression within seconds of meeting your interviewer before you get the opportunity to say a word. You can immediately turn an interviewer off if you look (or smell) unprofessional, slovenly, or nervous. How You Look: Make sure that you are dressed properly from top to bottom. Its not about looking beautiful, its about presenting a professional, confident persona. How You Smell: This may sound obvious, but its essential to avoid making a bad olfactory first impression. Dont walk into your job interview smelling like youve bathed in cologne or perfume, reeking of cigarette or cigar smoke, or emanating eau de locker room or dirty laundry hamper. What You Bring: Dont forget to bring a few hard copies of your resume (at least one for each of the people youre scheduled to meet, plus an extra or two just in case). Bring your portfolio and work samples, if appropriate, and make sure that they are organized professionally. Be prepared for emergencies by adding the following to your job interview survival kit: gum or mints, tissues, safety pins, a mini-lint roller, and make-up for touch-ups (if you wear it). WAITING IN THE LOBBY Make a point of greeting the receptionist professionally before taking a seat to wait for your interviewer. Be polite, but not overly friendly. You never know who might be watching you while you wait, so dont slouch in your chair and read Us Magazine or sing along to your iPod. Dont take

phone calls or obsessively check your Blackberry or iPhone as if you have better places to be. Sit down and wait patiently. Review your interview preparation notes or any company materials displayed in the lobby. GREETING YOUR INTERVIEWER Walk confidently to greet your interviewer, make eye contact, smile, and offer your hand. This is your only chance to make a first impression. DURING THE INTERVIEW Your Posture: When you take your seat, be sure to sit up straight and avoid slouching. You can lean forward a little to show your interest. The goal here is to appear natural, confident, and enthusiastic. Avoid any body language that could be construed as showing disinterest or desperation. Dont lean back (youll look too relaxed or lethargic) or fidget (youll look nervous or immature) and dont invade your interviewers personal space (youll look like a stalker). Your Hands and Feet: Keep your feet on the floor and your hands positioned naturally. If youre not sure what to do with your hands, keep them folded loosely in your lap or on the tabletop. Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact in a natural way. Just dont stare fixedly at your interviewer. That can seem creepy or robotic. Listen carefully and smile and nod as appropriate. WRAPPING UP THE INTERVIEW Once the interview is over, when you thank your interviewer politely for her time, shake her hand professionally and smile. Then its time to walk confidently out the door, secure in the knowledge that youve made a winning non-verbal impression.