Business Communication

Business Communication

Mehak Sarwar

Management Coach

IFPMC-LONDON

Communication is when one delivers a message verbally or non-verbally and the other party/parties receive that message which is then interpreted. This communication is effective if the message sent is correctly received and understood. Unlike everyday communication, business communication differs as it is mostly goal-orientated, so good business communication is essential when a company is climbing the “success ladder”. 

These four different communication barriers can hinder effective communication. Each of these should be considered beforehand. These barriers include:

• Semantic
  • This is when your message is miscomprehended due to the use of jargon or lack of specificity in what is being communicated or an incorrect translation. 
• Organisational
  • Due to disorganisation or absence of structure, the message can get lost and forgotten which is not what’s needed in a workplace 
• Psychological or Personal
  • As a result of:
    • Opinions 
    • Short concentration span
    • Emotions
    • Short retention span
    • Judgment 
    • Attitudes

The message is not received in the way it is intended.

Communication is effective when the 7 C’s of Communication are considered.

• Clarity within your message
• Your message is complete with all the necessary information
• Your message is correct and doesn’t include any trivial errors and will not be misunderstood
• Your communication is concise and without waffle that would confuse the other person whom you’re communicating to
• Your message is concrete since all the facts and necessary information is included
• Your message shows that you’ve considered the other person as it is tailored to whomever you are speaking to 
• Your message is respectful and courteous to whomever you’re communicating with

The better the communication is between everyone, the less time is wasted on going back and forth about what it is that is to be done which consequently creates a productive flow of work.

Furthermore, with communication, the “What” is just as important as the “How”. The message is crucial but if it has been communicated using a disrespectful tone or as one chunk in an email, your message will not be received as intended and communication will break down due to a misjudged perception. 

Subsequently, if you’re emailing your colleague or boss:

• Structure your email with paragraphs
• Have correct grammar and spelling
• Use formal language
• Take a direct approach when giving your message

If you’re conversing with another employee, keep in mind your:

• Body language
• Tone 
• Eye contact

Communication is vital for a diverse range of reasons:

• Keeps employees engaged and motivated when working as they are aware of the task at hand and can better on any feedback they receive to improve their work
• Any information can be given or received promptly without it being overlooked, easily forgotten, or lost in transmission
• The customers of your product or service are satisfied because your company is working like a well-oiled machine

Joseph Priestley said: “The more elaborate our means of communication, the less we communicate.”  Overall, a healthy, transparent, and open communication line within a workplace benefits every employee and customer involved and creates a better work environment that lifts people rather than brings people down.