The Communication Process
Communication is the process of giving and receiving a message within a context, through
channels, from a source to a receiver, for some feedback, action, or effect.
The communication process has several components that enable the transmission of a message.
Here are those components:
1. Sender/Source/Encoder: This is the person that is delivering a message to a recipient.
2. Message: This refers to the information that the sender is relaying to the receiver. A
message may either be verbal or nonverbal.
3. Channel of communication: This is the transmission or method of delivering the
message.
4. Context: It means the circumstances in which communication takes place. There are
different dimensions of context in communication which are physical context, social
context, psychological context, and temporal context.
5. Receiver/Decoder: The receiver is the person who is getting or receiving the message.
6. Feedback: In some instances, the receiver might have feedback or a response for the
sender. This starts an interaction. Feedback may be actual or empathic, positive or
negative, and verbal or nonverbal.
How does the communication process work?
In order to successfully communicate, it's important to understand how the process works. Here
are the seven steps in the communication process:
1. The sender develops an idea to be sent.
2. The sender encodes the message.
3. The sender selects the channel of communication that will be used.
4. The message travels over the channel of communication.
5. The message is received by the receiver.
6. The receiver decodes the message.
7. The receiver provides feedback, if applicable.
1. The sender develops an idea to be sent
The beginning of the communication process involves the sender creating an idea that they plan
to send to another person or group of people. Essentially, they're planning the overall subject
matter or information they want to transmit.
2. The sender encodes the message
Once the sender develops an idea, they translate it into a form that can be transmitted to someone
else. This means they transform the thoughts of the information they want to send into a certain
format. For example, if you are writing a letter, you'll translate your idea into words. The
message can also be nonverbal, oral or symbolic.
3. The sender selects the channel of communication that will be used
Next, the sender decides how the message will be sent. This involves selecting the most suitable
medium for the message they're relaying. Some communication mediums include speaking,
writing, electronic transmission or nonverbal communication. If you're communicating at work,
make sure to select the proper and most professional channel of communication.
4. The message travels over the channel of communication
After the medium is chosen, the message then begins the process of transmission. The exact
process of this will depend on the selected medium. In order for the message to be properly sent,
the sender should have selected the appropriate medium.
5. The message is received by the receiver
Next, the message is received by the recipient. This step in the communication process is done
by hearing the message, seeing it, feeling it or another form of reception.
6. The receiver decodes the message
The receiver then decodes the sender's message. In other words, they interpret it and convert it
into a thought. After they've done this, they analyze the message and attempt to understand it.
The communication process is performed effectively when the sender and receiver have the same
meaning for the transmitted message.
7. The receiver provides feedback, if applicable
Lastly, unless it's a one-way communication, the receiver will provide feedback in the form of a
reply to the original sender of the message. Feedback provides the recipient with the ability to
ensure the sender that their message was properly received and interpreted. Between two people,
this is two-way communication.
Tips for improving the communication process
Here are some tips to consider to improve your communication skills and the communication
process overall:
Simplify your message: In order to ensure your message is properly understood, you
should keep your language simple and to the point.
Know your audience: It's also important to consider the audience that will receive your
message as well as their needs and interests.
Be a good listener: As a communicator, it's important to actively listen to what those
around you are saying. This will ensure that you're sending the right message.
Ask questions: It's also important to ask good questions to keep the communication
flowing. Make sure your questions are insightful and engaging.
Take the time to respond: When communicating, it's important to consider how you
might reply to a person to ensure you know what you want to say.
Consider your body language: If you're communicating through a different medium, it's
important to be mindful of your body language. In addition, be aware of the body
language of the person you're communicating with, as well.
Maintain eye contact: It's also important to make contact with the person or group you're
communicating with. This will show that you're actively listening to who you're
communicating with.
Clarify your message if needed: If the recipient of your message is unclear about what
you're trying to say, it's important to clarify your message. This will help them to better
understand you.
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