One problem with this encode-transmit-receive-decode model is that the processes of encoding and decoding imply that the sender and receiver each possess something that functions as a codebook, and that these two code books are, at the very least, similar if not identical. Although something like code books is implied by the model, they are nowhere represented in the model, which creates many conceptual difficulties.
In general, communication is a means of connecting people or places.
In business, it is a critical function for success an organization cannot operate without communication between levels, departments and employees. Disturbingly, often seen as an ‘’everyday’’ soft skill module, it sits in the pot of generic soft skills and is often ignored for a long time. It is one of the most critical modules your organization has. I often push L&D managers to shake up this course, and take a fresh perspective. So what ‘’communication training’’ should you be supplying or your organization?
I would be confident in stating, it typically, includes: Dr Mehrabien’s research The Language Channel (the words we use), The Tonal Channel (the way we say them) The Non Verbal Channel (body language) and some listening skills? I am right yes? Naturally, these are great background reminders and let us never forget the power of body language, but just try thinking more deeply about communication when delivering or preparing a course.
In simple text; it is not as straight forward as we would like to think, due to the varying senders and receivers. The People Mix! I am, without doubt, a Jungian supporter, if he could follow me daily; I think he would give me commission, if not, certainly a T-Shirt! So, never forget your ode to Jung! Amongst so many studies and papers, Jung was definately on to the realisation that we respond differently to the same words. Google ‘’Use of the psycho-galvanometer’’ in your coffee break. Its great reading!
Communication is all about the clarity due to the magnificent blend of people concerned. Let me give the clearest example, and a giveaway!
In all my learning’s, where relevant, I use this effectual activity.
I ask a group simply to ‘’Write about an Ice Cream’’
No questions permitted, and within 2 minutes, I push people to write. When revealed, it is with perfect clarity just how different everyone’s written word and description is as there are no guidelines and no clarification of what, exactly I am expecting. Let me show you what the typical variants are:
DELEGATE A.
I love ice-cream, I love ice-cream. Ice cream is divine. I love it best when it is all mine mine mine. When we were young we would always be made to share all the great flavours in our family and sit and eat them on the beach. I loved nuts and syrup it makes the ice-cream shine in the sun, but I wanted it all to myself. Now I’m older, sometimes I buy a whole tub and eat it for myself. One day I will buy a factory.
DELEGATE B.
• Ice-cream needs to be below freezing
• It contains cream, milks and flavours
• There are many brands
• It is popular
• It melts quickly
DELEGATE C.
There was once a young boy who loved ice-cream. His parents couldn’t afford to buy him any, and he always used to watch the other children. One day a new corner shop opened…the little boy used to sit across the road and watch. A regular visitor to the shop was Baba G, a village elder. He noticed the boy one day and bought him an ice-cream.
DELEGATE D.
Ice-cream is a swirl of delight; every spoonful is a burst of flavours like the shooting stars. I love toffee flavour best, it reminds me of going to space and dancing with the stars, it is the best experience in the world. I wish that the world was made of ice-cream and we could eat our way through. But then, the world would melt and it would also be messy, so maybe we need ice-cream cities that were covered in large umbrellas, maybe made of sugar paper.
COMMUNICATION - FEATURE