Human Communication: The way of communication between people is the basis of human contact, learning, working and co-existing.
The way of communication between people is the basis of human contact, learning, working and co-existing. In our daily lives, we talk and chat with our relatives, at school, in the workplace and even over the internet.
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Through communication we are able to exchange ideas, emotions, information and intentions. In its absence, there would be no cooperation and understanding.
In the modern world communication has become more quick and enhanced than ever. The number of emails, messages, and calls is in billions and they are exchanged worldwide every day.
This renders the fundamental concepts of human communication to be very significant. Relationships become strong when communication is good. Failure of the same is followed by misunderstandings, stress and conflict.
What Is Human Communication
Human Communication: The communication between humans is a process by which humans establish a common meaning. It is not only a matter of talking or writing. It is whether the other party really comprehends what you are saying.
Communication is effective when:
- The message is decoded appropriately.
- The meaning of the message is distinguishable.
- The receiver is able to react accordingly.
Just sending a message does not mean communication. Understanding is the key.
The fundamental Dynamics of Communication
Human Communication: The process of human communication is organized and it has many steps which are linked to one another.
Sender
The initiator is the individual who initiates the communication. This individual has some concept or emotion that he or she wants to communicate.
Message Or Idea
The sender determines what he or she would like to convey. This may be reality, perception, demand, caution, or feeling.
Encoding
The process of converting the idea to words, gestures, facial expressions or written text is known as encoding.
Channel
The medium through which one transmits the message is called the channel. These can be face to face communication, phone, emails, letters or even video conferencing.
Receiver
The individual one who receives the message is the receiver.
Decoding
Decoding occurs when the recipient interprets the message according to the knowledge of language, experience, emotions, and cultural variety.
Feedback
The reply of the receiver is the feedback. It assists the sender to understand whether the message has been received in the right way.
Noise
Noise can be said to be anything which disrupts communication. This may be physical noise, emotional stress, faulty internet connection or not understanding one another.
Human Communication: Types
Verbal Communication
Spoken words are used in verbal communication. It comprises discussions, speeches, conversations and phone calls.
The major characteristics of effective verbal communication:
- Clear pronunciation
- Simple language
- Appropriate tone
- Logical structure
Nonverbal Communication
Body language, facial expression, eye contact, postures and gestures are types of nonverbal communication. It usually backs up or goes against verbal messages.
For example:
- Smiling shows friendliness
- Crossed arms can be an indicator of discomfort.
- Attention and confidence are displayed through eye contact.
Verbal communication is significantly imperative in the conveyance of feelings and opinions, more so through the use of nonverbal signals.
Written Communication
In written communication, one can point out emails, messages, reports, notes, and articles.
Practical written communication must be:
- Clear and organized
- Easy to read
- Free from confusion
- Polite in tone
Visual Communication
Visual communication involves the use of images, charts, graphs, symbols and diagrams where a piece of information is expressed. It is highly applicable in the explanation of complex information or instructions in a short time.
Context Performance In Communication
Context refers to the scenario within which there is communication occurrence. The message is open to different interpretations depending on the context.
Context includes:
- Connection among individuals.
- Cultural background
- Social setting
- Time and mood
In certain instances, a slang might be tolerable with friends but unacceptable in a business environment.
Communication The Digital Age
Digital platforms dominate the modern communication. Individuals are now using emails, instant messaging, social media, and video calls as a means to communicate.
Digital communication is fast and convenient but also brings with it challenges pitting:
- Information overload
- Reduced attention span
- Misinterpretation of tone
- Increased distractions
In digital communication, it is necessary to write clearly, at the right time, and with considerations.
Ordinary Obstacles To Effective Communication
Lack Of Listening
The reason most individuals listen is to respond as opposed to listening to understand.
Assumptions
It is common when people assume that other people know what you are talking about without clarifying which will result in confusion.
Emotional Barriers
Clear communication can be blocked by stress, anger, fear, and anxiety.
Poor Language Choice
Complex words or incomprehensible sentences decrease the level of understanding.
Inappropriate Communication medium.
Delicate issues might not be successful when communicated through a text rather than face-to-face.
Critical Relationship Skills
Active Listening
Active listening involves being the person who is fully listening without any interruptions and also expressing interest towards what the speaker is saying.
Clarity And Simplicity
Language that is straightforward and easy to grasp leads to understanding and less error.
Empathy
Empathy assists in putting yourself into the thoughts and outlook of other people enhancing communication.
Constructive Feedback
Feedback feedback is a certainty that one has understood and builds better communication in the future.
The most important parts of human communication
| Element | Description | Example | Common Issue | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sender | Starts the message | Asking a question | measure | Cut to the point |
| Message | Information shared | instructions | Too complex | Use simple word |
| Channel | Medium used | Email, call | Wrong choice | Match channel to topic |
| Receiver | Gets message | listener | Distraction | Avoid distractions |
| Misunderstanding | Reduce distractions |
Human Communication: Self-awareness is another critical point in human communication. The way that you communicate is severely affected by your outer personality, your previous experiences, beliefs, and emotional condition.
By knowing what their communication style is, whether they are often direct, reserved, emotional or analytical, individuals are able to change their style to fit a particular situation and audience.
Self-conscious communicators take time to think before speaking, keep word choice and think about how their message will be taken in order to receive the same. Such awareness will cause less conflict, increased mutual respect, and facilitate better communication even in the face of difficult discussions.
Human Communication: Knowledge of the fundamentals of human communication assists individuals to articulate themselves as part of forming positive relationships. Communication should also be effective and encompassed by effective messages, the right channels, listening and effective feedbacks.
Conflict is minimized and cooperation and trust are enhanced in professional and personal life due to good communication skills.
Everyone can produce a more effective communicator in the current context because being clear, understanding other people, and attentive to the situation can all make a person better in a fast world.