What is communication?

Communication is a complex psychosocial phenomenon involving multiple modalities of operations (verbal, non-verbal, para-verbal). While it is composed on the one hand explicitly, most often in the form of language, it nevertheless includes implicit facets that involve processes, set of behaviours, inferences, cultural codes, as well as the whole context in which it is placed. It is therefore necessary to contemplate all its components to be able to understand others and communicate adequately.

What is the importance of Communication in our daily life?

Communication is a fundamental need of the human being. It influences our daily lives in all its aspects: receiving or transmitting information, communicating small and big wishes, expressing feelings, arguing or being able to say no.  

Communication allows each member to inform others about their situations so that all individuals who are operating in the same tune can guarantee that the balance is ensured and maintained.

What are the components of Communication?

When communicating, six elements come into play; these elements include the sender who is the source of the message that is being transmitted, the recipient who represents the person who is perceiving the message, the message itself which consists of the knowledge transmitted, the channel that represents the conduit through which the message is being transmitted, the medium which represent the means that were used to transmit the message and finally the feedback that the recipient sends back to the sender.

According to this structure, good communication results from the mastery of the elements of communication, namely, the identification of the recipient of the message. The accuracy of the message, the choice of the right channel to use for each situation, but also the reception of feedback to ensure that the message was indeed well conveyed.

What are the six C’s for an Effective Communication?

To be able to consider that our communication is effective, it is quintessential to contemplate the six C’s:

The message must be:

• Clear
• Concise
• Coherent
• Correct
• Courteous
• Convincing

Clear as in unambiguous, Concise as in precise, Coherent as in significant, Correct as in accurate, Courteous as in respectful and Convincing as in relevant.

Why some messages get lost in translation?

One of the major reasons why miscommunication occurs is in direct relation to what is known as the “signal amplification bias” which translates into the idea of “am sure it was pretty obvious” or the presumption that the message communicated is undoubtably clear. The reality is, that most of what is being communicated is open to multiple interpretations. By assuming that the recipient fully understood what was communicated, the sender will automatically expect a certain response. When that response does not match the sender’s anticipation, this is when the message gets lost in translation.

Miscommunication often stems from the misalignments of implicit messages transferred between the sender and the recipient.

Some individuals fall into the trap of wanting to prove a point rather than carefully listening to what the other person is trying to communicate. Therefore, the message loses its original direction and becomes tainted by whose point of view is more victorious.

The negativity bias is one of the main motives in explaining miscommunication as well. It is elucidated in the individual’s tendency to orient towards the negative, rather than dissecting the message in a neutral and objective manner.

How to ensure that we are communicating properly?

Communication is a two-way path that can be effective when these criteria are applied:

When the code is correct. We say or manifest a message with the words and expressions that really make it possible to understand what we want to convey.

When code alterations are avoided. In other words, we must avoid imprecise expressions, words, or gestures. Accuracy is key in effective communication.

When the situation of the receiver is considered. When saying something, we must contemplate the characteristics and situation of the person who will listen or read it. For example, it is understandable that we do not speak to a child in the same way that we do to an adult.

When the framework in which communication takes place is analysed. Communication must be consistent with the situation in which it occurs. For example, we should avoid telling a joke at a funeral.

When punctuation in the sequence of events is well defined. This means that communication has an adequate rhythm. We alternate pauses with the demonstrations of each, in a propitious tone.

When digital communication is consistent with analogue communication.

When the person communicating has a good receiver, in the sense that people involved know how to speak and listen.

And always remember, it is not what we say … it is how we say it.

If you find yourself facing challenges in effectively communicating, whether in personal relationships, professional settings, or navigating the complexities of digital interactions, the American Wellness Center in Dubai Healthcare City is here to support you. Our team of experts in the Psychology Department is equipped with the knowledge and tools to help you develop and refine your communication skills. Through personalized strategies and support, we aim to empower you to communicate more effectively, enhancing your relationships and overall well-being. Reach out to us today to explore how we can assist you in achieving communication mastery.