Obstacles to Effective Communication

Communication is a two-way street. With effective communication, each party clearly understands what the other is saying. But sometimes there are obstacles that can blur the message. In some cases, it's in the delivery; other times, it's the receiver who can be at fault. But by understanding the obstacles to effective communication, listeners and receivers can better navigate around them and communicate a clearer message.

Incorrect Medium

With today's technology, there are a number of communication options. Choosing the right one can be challenging. Using e-mail to send out long, detailed instructions for completing a task that must be done immediately may not work as intended. Verbal delivery of that information to a person as he rushes by your office could get lost between one cubicle and the next. E-mail reminders or written notes would be better for dates, while pre-printed notes accompanying a personal delivery might be best for getting an emergency task done.

High-Stress Surroundings

A tense situation can change the overall tone of a message, both by the listener and the receiver. It isn't uncommon to find orders being barded in a wartime situation or on a football field. Loud, direct orders may be the best and quickest way to accomplish a group task immediately and efficiently. But personal criticism in those situations may not be received as well, depending on the listener. For some, it can drive them to work harder. For others, the message may throw their internal thinking into disarray, causing them to lose focus. During downtime before entering the situation, the sender should explain his style to the receivers, but also observe how each receiver reacts to criticism and adjust accordingly.

Preconceived Notions

If a listener believes that the sender is out to get him or doesn't personally like him, it will not matter what the sender says--the message will almost always seem tainted. For example, if the listener is under a general review or inspection, the listener can take these criticisms personally rather than professionally. It would be wise to explain beforehand that any criticisms are based on standards, while the listener should take a moment to air out any questions about personal grievances.

Past Experience

In the same vein as the preconceived notion, someone's past experience communicating with a person could hamper future communications. If the last encounter resulted in a blowup or storming out, the sender may not want to speak with that person, and the receiver may not want to hear what he has to say. Some people choose to communicate through another person, which can really throw off the message. It is best to clear up the original issue before a really important message is received badly.

Rank and Authority

By holding rank or authority over someone, the sender's words can be taken as gospel and actually cause more of a reaction than intended. This can also count with nonverbal communication. A boss folding his arms while listening to an employee explain a procedure could indicate disdain or anger, even if the boss is just cold and is trying to warm up. Employees who feel that they cannot express their opinions and give constructive advice to their bosses may not communicate a message the way it needs to be communicated in order to improve a company's procedures. In this case, the boss should establish his preferred communication needs and be consistent with them.