What Do You Mean by Communication?

Citizens in Hong Kong were relieved to hear the postpone of garbage levy (also known as the Municipal Solid Waste Charging Scheme) implementation date to August 2024, the third postpone from the original schedule of Q4 2023. The government’s communication and publicity strategies for the waste charging scheme were criticized for being unclear and confusing. However, on the other hand, government officials believe that they have explained it clearly.

There’s one remark from Dr Samuel Chui, JP, the Director of Environmental Protection Environmental Protection Department, during an interview with media, that “Whether it is clear or not often depends on whether you want to clarify it or not. If you don’t want to clarify it, it will always remain unclear.”

What Is Communication?

The word “Communication” is derived from the Latin word “communis,” which means “common” or “shared.” It refers to the mutual understanding of messages. Different from one-way transmission, the essence of Communication is to ensure that the audience receives the message clearly and shares a common understanding. It is not just about what the communicator says. If there is no understanding or connection, it is as if there is no communication at all.

Communication is the process of exchanging information, thoughts, ideas, and feelings between individuals or groups. It involves both the transmission and reception of messages through various channels, such as spoken or written words, body language, and nonverbal cues.

The Importance of Communication

The benefits of effective communication are numerous, and I’m just going to highlight a few:

• Understanding: Communication promotes mutual understanding and empathy, fostering stronger connections between individuals or groups.
• Relationships: Effective communication builds trust and strengthens personal and professional relationships, leading to more harmonious and productive interactions.
• Conflict Resolution: Communication plays a crucial role in resolving conflicts and disagreements, facilitating peaceful and constructive solutions.
• Collaboration: Good communication enhances teamwork and collaboration, allowing individuals to work together more efficiently and effectively towards shared goals.
• Personal Development: Communication skills contribute to personal growth and development, empowering individuals to express themselves, listen actively, and engage effectively in various aspects of life.

Improve Communication in Workplace

Before we start talking about tips or techniques of improving communication, the up most important is to create psychological safety. As a team leader, it’s going to be your responsibility to let the team members feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and share their thoughts and ideas without fear of judgment or negative repercussions.

Many people mistaken communication by lots of talking and lecturing, an effective communicator starts from active listening with empathy. Demonstrate genuine interest and empathy when others are speaking. Practice active listening by giving your full attention, asking clarifying questions, and reflecting back on what has been shared.

When you try to convey the message, be aware of the “curse of knowledge” (or “curse of expertise”). That is assuming everyone knows as much as you do on a given topic, the very mistake appeared early in this article. Be adapted to the audience, try to use clear and concise language and always check for understanding would help to bring everyone on the same page.

Last and most importantly, leading by example. As a leader, demonstrate vulnerability, authenticity, and openness in your own communication. This sets the tone and encourages others to do the same.

Effective communication is essential for building a strong and cohesive team. It establishes trust, enhances collaboration, promotes understanding and respect, encourages innovation, resolves issues, and boosts morale. By fostering effective communication practices, teams can work together more effectively, achieve goals, and create a positive and supportive team environment.