Things that get in the way of message transmission are sometimes called “noise.” Communication may be difficult because of noise.
1. Physical Distractions
A bad cellular phone line or a noisy restaurant can destroy communication. If an E-mail message or letter is not formatted properly, or if it contains grammatical and spelling errors, the receiver may not be able to concentrate on the message because the physical appearance of the letter or E-mail is sloppy and unprofessional.
What to do:
• Consider your location and means of communication before engaging in the conversation.
• Pick somewhere quiet and free of distractions.
• Proof read written communications before sending them.
2. Channel Barriers
If the sender chooses an inappropriate channel of communication, communication may cease. Detailed instructions presented over the telephone, for example, may be frustrating for both communicators. If you are on a computer technical support help line discussing a problem, it would be helpful for you to be sitting in front of a computer, as opposed to taking notes from the support staff and then returning to your computer station.
What to do:
• Choose appropriate means of communication.
• For complicated communication exchanges, face-to-face is preferable to electronic communication.
3. Linguistic Barriers
Variance in expression or colloquialism is common even among those who speak the same language.
What to Do:
• Minimize the use of slang and idioms when delivering the message.
• Avoid the use of jargon, over-complicated or unfamiliar terms.
• Keep the language used in the message simple and as free as possible from business speak or sports
metaphors.
• Make clarity and simplicity the goal over showcasing linguistic ability.
4. Assumptions.
Assumptions sabotage effective communication and have the potential to lead everyone down unintended paths. For instance, you may assume that because people are nodding while you speak, they understand and agree with what you are saying. Similarly, if you invite questions about your message and get none, it would be easy to assume there are none.
What to do:
• Work on the basis that all your assumptions could be false.
• Make your assumptions known to others to determine their validity.
• Anticipate questions and concerns that could come out of your message and bring them up to
encourage conversation.
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