In business, communication refers to the sharing and exchange of information, ideas, instructions, and feedback between individuals or groups. It is a fundamental organisational process that enables coordination, decision-making, problem-solving, relationship-building, and the overall achievement of business objectives. Without effective communication, even the best strategies, systems, and people cannot operate efficiently.
Strong communication ensures that employees understand their roles, managers can lead effectively, teams collaborate smoothly, and stakeholders—from customers to suppliers—receive accurate, timely information.
The Communication Process
The communication process describes the series of steps involved in transmitting a message and ensuring it is understood correctly by the receiver. Although simple in theory, the process can become complex in practice due to human behaviour, organisational structures, and external conditions. The key elements include:
1. Sender
The sender is the person or group initiating the communication. They determine the purpose of the message, select the appropriate medium, and encode their ideas into words, symbols, or gestures.
2. Message
The message is the content being communicated. It may include facts, opinions, instructions, requests, or emotional expressions. Clarity, structure, and relevance are essential for effective messaging.
3. Medium (or Channel)
The medium is the method used to transmit the message. It may be:
- Written – emails, reports, memos
- Verbal – face-to-face conversations, telephone calls, presentations
- Digital – instant messaging, video conferencing
- Non-verbal – body language, tone of voice, visual cues
Choosing the right medium depends on urgency, formality, complexity, organisational culture, and the relationship between sender and receiver.
4. Receiver
The receiver is the individual or group for whom the message is intended. They must decode the message—interpreting and understanding the sender’s words, tone, and intent.
5. Feedback
Feedback completes the communication loop. It is the receiver’s response, which confirms whether the message was received, understood, and acted upon. Feedback may be verbal or non-verbal and helps the sender adjust communication as needed.
Noise in the Communication Process
Noise refers to anything that disrupts, distorts, or interferes with the transmission or understanding of a message. Noise can occur at any stage of the communication process and can significantly affect accuracy and effectiveness. Common types include:
Physical Noise
External, environmental factors such as background chatter, poor phone signal, or technical issues that hinder the receiver’s ability to hear or read the message clearly.
Psychological Noise
Internal factors such as biases, emotions, stress, assumptions, and preconceived ideas that influence how the message is interpreted.
Semantic Noise
Misunderstandings caused by ambiguous language, jargon, cultural differences, or unfamiliar terminology.
Organisational Noise
Barriers created by hierarchy, unclear reporting lines, or poor communication channels within an organisation.
Recognising and minimising noise is key to ensuring communication is clear, efficient, and effective.
