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Features-of-an-Effective-Communication

The document outlines the 7 Cs of Effective Communication, which include Completeness, Conciseness, Consideration, Concreteness, Courtesy, Clearness, and Correctness, emphasizing their importance in effective public relations and advertising. It also identifies various barriers to communication, such as emotional barriers and the use of jargon, along with strategies to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, it discusses the significance of both verbal and nonverbal communication in conveying messages effectively and engaging the audience.

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4 views2 pages

Features-of-an-Effective-Communication

The document outlines the 7 Cs of Effective Communication, which include Completeness, Conciseness, Consideration, Concreteness, Courtesy, Clearness, and Correctness, emphasizing their importance in effective public relations and advertising. It also identifies various barriers to communication, such as emotional barriers and the use of jargon, along with strategies to overcome these obstacles. Additionally, it discusses the significance of both verbal and nonverbal communication in conveying messages effectively and engaging the audience.

Uploaded by

Newa Monato
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Features of an Effective Communication

In their pioneer book Effective Public Relations, Professors Broom, Cutlip, and Center (2012) list the 7 Cs of Effective
Communication. This list is widely used today, especially in public relations and advertising.

Completeness
Complete communication is essential to the quality of the communication process in general. Hence, communication should
include everything that the receiver needs to hear for him/ her to respond, react, or evaluate properly.
Conciseness
Conciseness does not mean keeping the message short, but making it direct or straight to the point. Insignificant or redundant
information should be eliminated from the communication that will be sent to the recipient.
Consideration
To be effective, the speaker should always consider relevant information about his/her receiver such as mood,
background, race, preference, education, status, and needs, among others. By doing so, he/she can easily build rapport
with the audience.
Concreteness
Effective communication happens when the message is concrete and supported by facts, figures, and real-life examples
and situations. In this case, the receiver is more connected to the message conveyed.

Courtesy
The speaker shows courtesy in communication by respecting the culture, values, and beliefs of his/her receivers. Being
courteous at all times creates a positive impact on the audience.
Clearness
Clearness in communication implies the use of simple and specific words to express ideas. It is also achieved when the
speaker focuses only on a single objective in his/her speech so as not to confuse the audience.
Correctness
Correctness in grammar eliminates negative impact on the audience and increases the credibility and effectiveness of the
message.

Barriers to Communication
There are instances when miscommunication and misunderstanding occur because of certain barriers. To become an effective
communicator, you should recognize these barriers that hinder the communication process. This will enable you to control the
situation, reset conditions, and start anew. The table below presents some barriers to effective communication with corresponding
solutions.
Note that these are only some of the barriers; many others may arise out of context, language, physical restrictions, and the like.

Barrier Example Solution


Emotional You are having a bad day or you Recognize these kinds of emotions, and politely ask the other
barriers feel frustrated. person to give you a moment so you can relax or calm yourself.
You sit in a meeting or class where Recognize this kind of attitude, reset, and reflect on how you
you think the speaker is boring. can be interested in what the speaker is pointing out.
Use of jargon You are a scientist discussing a Jargon refers to the set of specialized vocabulary in a certain
certain weather phenomenon field. To avoid communication breakdown due to lack of
with your neighbor who does not clarity, adjust your language; use layman’s terms or simple
know much about the topic. words.
Lack of You are asked to share something Develop self-confidence by joining organizations where you
confidence about your day or weekend, but can share and develop your interests. Look for opportunities
you are hesitant because you are in your school or community that will help you find your
shy. strengths and improve your abilities.
Noisy You are having a conversation Recognize that noise is a common barrier. Make some
environment with some friends when a song adjustments by asking someone to minimize the volume
was played loudly. or by looking for a quiet area where you can resume the
conversation.
Verbal Communication and Nonverbal Communication
Verbal Communication refers to an interaction in which words are used to relay a message. For effective and successful verbal
communication, use words to express ideas which can be easily understood by the person you are talking to. Consider appropriateness,
brevity, clarity, ethics, and vividness when engaging in this type of communication.
Appropriateness
The language that you use should be appropriate to the environment or occasion (i.e., whether formal or informal).
Brevity
Speakers who often use simple yet precise and powerful words are found to be more credible. Try to achieve brevity by being
more direct with your words. Avoid fillers and insubstantial expressions which do not add to the message, such as “uh,” “you
know,” “I guess,” and others.
Clarity
The meanings of words, feelings, or ideas may be interpreted differently by a listener; hence, it is essential for you to clearly
state your message and express your ideas and feelings.
Ethics
Words should be carefully chosen in consideration of the gender, roles, ethnicity, preferences, and status of the person or
people you are talking to.
Vividness
Words that vividly or creatively describe things or feelings usually add color and spice to communication. Hence, you are
encouraged to find ways to charm your audience through the use of vivid words.

Nonverbal communication refers to an interaction where behavior is used to convey and represent meanings. All kinds of human
responses that are not expressed in words are classified as nonverbal communication. Examples of nonverbal communication are stares,
smiles, tone of voice, movements, manners of walking, standing and sitting, appearance, style of attire, attitude towards time and space,
personality, gestures, and others.

Mastery of nonverbal communication is important for several reasons:


It enhances and emphasizes the message of your speech, thus making it more meaningful, truthful, and relevant.
It can communicate feelings, attitudes, and perceptions without you saying a word.
It can sustain the attention of listeners and keep them engaged in the speech.
It gives the audience a preview to the type of speaker you are.
It makes you appear more dynamic and animated in your delivery.
It serves as a channel to release tension and nervousness.
It helps make your speech more dramatic.
It can build a connection with listeners.
It makes you a credible speaker.
It helps you vary your speaking style and avoid a monotonous delivery.

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