Philosophies and Media of Communication

In this article we are discussing four philosophies of communication by which we can determine the characteristics of communicators. And as well different media of communication.

Philosophies of Communication

1. Developmental Communicator

His approach is democratic. He emphasizes on joint understanding of problems. He believes and demonstrates that two heads are better than one. He is employee-centered. He is two way communicator and good listener. The developmental communicator enjoys new methods and approaches and encourages exploration and experimentation.

2. Controlling Communicator

His approach is autocratic. According to him, there is no alternative to his idea. He is management-centered. He is one way communicator and does not listen to other. He is not interested in experimentation because he assumes that his own ideas and approaches are best.  However, controlling approach is appropriate in the following situations:

1. When the supervisor has complete knowledge and necessary experience of the situation.

2. When quick and efficient actions are needed in crisis situations, such as fire, economic changes.

3. When joint commitment or motivation is unimportant.

3. Relinquishing Communicator

Relinquishing communicator tries to avoid responsibility. He tries to shift burden to other people. He is willing to think about alternative courses of actions but not analyze them with passion. According to him, things make their own way. He does not take first step to achieve something or to solve a problem. Relinquishing approach is appropriate when subordinates have control over the situation and have necessary information, experience, facts and expertise.  

4. Withdrawn Communicator

He is reserved and introverted. He avoids large group of people and feeling more energized by spending time alone. He is reticent and feels shy to reveal his thoughts and feelings. Neither he contributes his ideas nor solicits from other. The withdrawn communicator believes in status quo and does not like change. A manager is not a manager if he does not face challenging or difficult situations. The withdrawn approach is desirable when there is legal, moral or ethical issue. Get involved in such a situation may create a problem.

 Media of Communication

1. Thinking:

Communication starts from thinking. Thinking is a mental process. It helps us to produce ideas, decisions and memories. All of our actions depend on our thoughts. If you are positive in your thoughts, it will make your personality unique and different. By critical thinking we can make effective and sound decisions. Critical thinking is ability to think clearly, rationally and based on evidence.               

2. Actions

Action speaks louder than words. The messages and feelings communicated through body actions. Sometimes body language is stronger than spoken or written words. Action is the process of doing something. If you have a vision to get something in future, absolutely it will require action. Showing consistency in an action is the dominant reason behind success of any business.

3. Observation

Observation is the process of closely monitoring something or someone for getting information. Observation can also involve the recording of information using instruments. In business point of view, it is necessary for the manager to observe his position of business. He should watch the environment around him. He should also know that what his competitors are doing?

                                                                                                                                    

4. Speaking

Without speak we cannot communicate with another. Speaking is the act of saying something in order to express your thoughts and feelings. Talking, Presentation or giving a lecture is the example of speaking. Speaking confidently can get the attention of an audience. Business managers develop a talent for keeping other persons talking to obtain maximum information from them.

5. Listening

Effective communication requires effective listening. Listening is the process of paying close attention to someone or something in order to hear an expected sound. Giving full attention to hear a lecture is the example of listening. Without proper listening you cannot understand the message easily. Many successful businessmen credit their success to good listening.

6. Writing

Writing is a process of recording words through hands for reading. It makes our thinking visible. Writing is one of the most important modes of communication that constitute a permanent record. By having a good writing skills business letters, memos and reports can be communicated clearly. Correct grammar, spelling and punctuations are essential components of writing.

7. Reading

Reading is the activity of getting information from books, newspapers, web pages and from any other written material that can be seen. According to a study that the average business manager spends approximately four and a half hours reading reports, memorandums and other official material per day. A person can get great knowledge by developing a habit of reading.