BUS3041 WK2 Project

Communication Methods

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Let’s look at some leadership communication methods:

Verbal communication - The primary bene�t of face-to-face verbal communication is that you can

rephrase and recode your message immediately in response to body language or spoken feedback

from the listener. Person-to-person or face-to-face communication is the most effective method of communication. This method is most ef�cient when used to interact with more than one person,

because speaking to only one person at a time is often time consuming. Uses include: presentations,

meetings, training, telephone/conference calls, and one-on-one discussion.

Written communication - The primary bene�t of written communication is that writers have time to

revise and edit what they want to convey. Written communication can be highly effective, especially

for communicating complicated and in-depth information, but it also has several drawbacks. For

example, it may be time consuming—it is not ef�cient if it takes an hour to write a letter for an audience of one. On the other hand, time invested in written messages may be very worthwhile—it is

highly ef�cient to spend an hour preparing a newsletter that will reach 2,500 employees. Another

drawback is that written communication is usually composed by the writer in isolation in an attempt to

communicate to an audience that is not visible. As a result, visual feedback such as body language,

which plays an important role in face-to-face communication, is not available. Uses include: formal

business letters, emails, newsletters, performance appraisals, policy manuals, presentation handouts, reports, �yers, and websites.

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Technology-assisted communication - Technology-assisted communication is effective and ef�cient

because it enables leaders to reach multiple audiences. However, it does have some drawbacks.

Feedback may be limited by "noise" that exists in the communication channel such as an audience

member who spends time sur�ng the Internet instead of responding to e-mail messages. Fortunately, there are techniques leaders can use to enhance the effectiveness of technology-assisted

communication. When used appropriately, technology may actually increase the ef�ciency of

communication.

Other communication methods include:

Mass media–produced communication - Tools of mass media such as newsletters, policy manuals, corporate newspapers, websites, and industry-speci�c newspapers and journals can be useful for

leaders in quickly disseminating information to multiple internal and external recipients. The

effectiveness and ef�ciency depends on the method chosen and the message that is to be

communicated. It also depends on the ability of the person who creates the message.

Nonverbal communication - Nonverbal communication occurs through facial expressions, body

gestures and posture, and dress. Many people are unaware of the nonverbal cues they convey. People

also misinterpret nonverbal cues sent by others. Effective communication requires individuals, especially leaders, to be aware of the messages that they are sending through nonverbal cues to

ensure these messages are appropriate.

Leaders use speci�c tools for nonverbal communication such as:

Body language such as posture and arm position

Physical barriers such as desk, chairs, or podium

Facial expressions such as eye contact, smiling, frowning, or raising eyebrows

Personal space

Dress and physical appearance such as grooming of hair or use of cosmetics

Leaders must balance the need for effective and personalized communication with ef�cient delivery

methods. Understanding costs and bene�ts provides a framework for future leadership

communication efforts.

Communication is an essential part of conducting business, and the average business manager spends 75 to 80 percent of the day participating in written or oral communication. It is important to familiarize

yourself with the different communication methods and select ones may be most effective for what

you need to accomplish.