Overcoming barriers to communication

Effective communication is essential for the success of every organisation. Therefore steps must be taken to eliminate the barrier to communication and to ensure that the message is properly understood by the receiver.
How you can minimise barriers to communicate properly:

1. Well drafted message – The message to be transmitted must be clear and concise, it is very essential to know the audience for whom the message is meant. The message should be adequate and appropriate for the purpose of communication.
2. Proper Language – The message should be expressed in simple and easily understood language. The words & used to convey the message should match the difference in understanding of the receiver. This will help to minimise the semantic barrier.
3. Two-way communication– The communicator and the communicatee both should participate in the process of communication. It should be a two way traffic involving both telling and listening. Sharing information helps to improve understanding.
4. Flow of communication – The flow of communication should be regulated to avoid communication overload. Appropriate channel and media of communication should be used.
5. Consistency – Communication should be consistent with the goal and policies of the organisation, there should be no contradiction between words and action.
6. Patience or Empathy – One should be a good listener to communicate effectively. Superiors should develop the habit of patience listening, control over emotions is necessary.
7. Trust – A sense of mutual trust and confidence should be developed to promote free flow of information. Communication should be free from personal prejudices.
8. Gestures and tone– Words in the message must be reinforced through appropriate gestures of facial expressions. The tone used should take into account the physical environment and human conditions.
9. Feedback – The feedback should be analysed and used to improve future communication.
10. Open door policy – Managers should keep the door open to encourage employees to communicate. Management by walking around will also facilitate informed communication.

So, these are some efforts which can be made to overcome barriers in communication.