Define communication. How can an organization enhance effective communication?

Communication is the process of transmitting and exchanging ideas, emotions, information, and facts between two or more persons — the transfer of meaning and understanding through verbal and non-verbal means. According to Theo Haimann, communication is the process of passing information and understanding from one person to another. It is the lifeblood of an organization, essential to leading, motivating, coordinating, and decision-making.

An organization can enhance effective communication through the following individual and organizational skills:

1. Good listening skill: the most important skill — listening with patience, not interrupting the speaker, and asking only appropriate questions, which is the essence of active listening.
2. Two-way communication: allowing the receiver to ask questions and express opinions, which fosters effectiveness.
3. Awareness of language and meaning: the sender should consider the different meanings receivers might attach to various words.
4. Maintaining credibility: the sender should stay accurate and honest to preserve trust.
5. Sensitivity to the receiver's perspective: considering how the receiver will feel, especially with unwelcome news.
6. Sensitivity to the sender's perspective: the receiver should also try to understand the sender's point of view.
7. Following up: ensuring the message was received and understood by the receiver.
8. Regulating information flows: controlling the amount of information so no employee is overloaded at one time.
9. Understanding the richness of different mediums: matching the medium to the message — for example, face-to-face for a sensitive layoff but written communication for a salary increase.
10. Active listening: listening to the message content, responding to feelings, giving feedback on what was understood, and encouraging people to express their emotions.

In conclusion, communication is the exchange of meaning and understanding between people, and an organization can enhance it through good listening, two-way flow, credibility, sensitivity, follow-up, proper medium selection, and active listening.