Barriers to Effective Communication

Today's fast-paced world is changing the face of communication both in business and interpersonal relationships. Technology has opened the door to new ways of interacting, yet the process is still challenged by barriers that hinder its effectiveness. Some of these obstacles include individual competence, language, perception and information overload.

Function

Understanding the communication process is the first step toward identifying which barrier is affecting your ability to communicate. First, the sender has an idea, usually a product of thought and research. The idea is put into words (or actions) by the sender, who then transmits the message. Upon receiving the message, the recipient must be able to draw meaning from it before providing feedback. Although the process may seem simple, communication barriers interfering with any of these steps can lead to complex problems.

Types

Competence refers to your ability to communicate in a way that is accepted by others and accomplishes your goals. This affects each step in the communication process---from putting your ideas into form to using the best method of communicating to understanding what the message means.

Language presents a problem not only for those interacting with foreign speakers, but also for those communicating in the same language. Words express both denotative meaning, a dictionary definition, and connotative meaning, the associations you make upon hearing them.

Perception refers to the way you see others as well as the way others see you. This mental image impacts how others interpret the messages you send and how you will interpret the behavior of others.

Information overload is the bombardment of messages competing for our attention throughout the day. It affects your ability to receive certain messages and has the potential to bury messages you send.

Prevention/Solution

Being mindful of your communication strengths and weaknesses can help you overcome communication barriers. The next step is to learn as much as you can about your audience, or who you are communicating with. This will help you choose the best way of expressing your message and ensuring that it is heard. Finally, address your communication weaknesses by gaining the knowledge and skills you need to be effective. For example, this might include public speaking classes or technology training.

Considerations

Interacting with individuals from another culture can add even more dimensions to communication barriers. What is acceptable in one culture is not always appropriate in another. This includes verbal and nonverbal aspects of the message as well as other characteristics of context, such as time, place and relationships involved in the interaction.

Benefits

Reducing barriers that affect effective communication can improve every level of your communication, from interpersonal through mediated communication. According to Courtland Bovee and John Thill, authors of "Business Communication Essentials," effective communication in the work place leads to quicker problem solving, stronger decision making, increased productivity, clearer promotional materials and strengthened relationships.