Communication is defined as a two-way process which involves the conveying of information from (sender) to (receiver). The need for effective communication is very important when dealing with the human factor from recruitment to retirement in the organization.
For communication to be effective there must be feedback.
Means of Communication
1. Oral – This includes all types of spoken communication, e.g. interviews and meetings.
2. Written – This includes all things that are written, e.g. reports and letters.
3. Visual – This includes all things which can be seen, e.g., posters and films.
The primary objective of communication in any organization is to get work done.
Types of communication
Formal Communication -These are official methods approved by management.
These includes meetings, announcement on notices boards, memoranda, messages over public address systems, interviews, performance appraisals, company magazines. etc.
Informal Communication -These are unofficial methods of communication.
These include: rumours and the grapevine, secret signs and gestures as well as casual conversation between employees.
Barriers to Communication
1. Distortion of messages e.g. rumours or the grapevine can easily distort messages.
2. Inappropriate forms of transmission e.g. a notice of a formal meeting must be conveyed in writing and not by word of mouth. If this type of meeting is not conveyed in writing it may seem casual and unimportant.
3. Physical barriers e.g. faulty telephone connections, defects in mechanical or electronic equipment, and poor postal services.