Communication, Barriers to Effective

Communicating effectively is ensuring that the message which is being communicated to others is understood by them, not just passed on without under consideration as to whether the message has been understood. This latter action is just communication.

There are many barriers which can prevent effective communication, so before trying to communicate a message it is important to consider a range of influencing factors, including:

• What is it that you wish to communicate?

• Know your recipient, whether an individual or group of people.

• The use of relevant language and the use, or not, of technical jargon.

• Use appropriate language, no discriminatory or belittling language.

• Is the message clear or is it confusing in what is being said? Are you clear in what is to be conveyed, without any ambiguity?

• Ensuring information overload is not achieved – too much information at once and the recipient will not be able to assimilate it, therefore the effectiveness of the communication has been lost.

• The language used: English, or non-English.

• Are there any cultural differences which need to be considered? Some graphics and symbols may be unacceptable to some cultures, as may the use of certain language.

• Gaining the recipients attention and avoiding distractions.

• A lack of respect, trust, interest or disengagement from the recipient.
This can be very challenging as they may not wish to hear what is being said, in which case it might be that written communication which is acknowledged by them via a signature is one way of at least evidencing you did communicate the message.

• The age of the recipient.

• The experiences of the recipient.

• A suitable medium is used to convey the message: verbal, written, demonstration, presentation, by video, etc.

• Are there any physical barriers which will dilute the message? Does the recipient need to be in close proximity to you? Do you need an aid to amplify a verbal message in any way? Is the recipient being physically aggressive or negative (for example, arms folded, sitting back on a chair)?

• Ensuring a suitable personal space is always maintained between you and the recipient, where applicable. You do not want anyone to feel threatened by your delivery of the message.

• Are there any behavioural issues, which need to be considered? Are there any personality classes or distinctly varying attitudes which may affect the message?

• Is there any noise in the background, which will be off putting to all parties?

• Are there any illnesses or personal events which may affect the receipt of the message? If a recipient is ill or has suffered a recent tragedy, then they may not be able to take on board what is being communicated.

• Listen to what the recipient has to say in response to the message. Get feedback from them by asking them questions; this will help you determine if they have understood what you have communicated. Where you have doubts or it is clear the message has not been correctly understood you will then be in a position to clarify any misunderstood parts of the message, maybe in a different way.

• Deliver any communication in a positive and confident manner and vary your delivery to keep the recipient engaged.