The word ‘communicate’ is derived from the Latin word ‘communicare‘ which means to share and participate. It is the process of the exchange of information between individuals through common symbols, signs, words, or behaviour. Facts, opinions, and feelings are expressed through communication.
It is a two-way process requiring at least two persons to be a part of this exchange. The success of communication depends on the understanding levels of the message. The goal is well achieved depending on how clearly understood, and interpreted, and whether the message was conveyed as intended.
It is an ongoing process. Man is a social animal who needs to communicate for survival and growth. In the absence of communication, all human activities will cease to exist. It is required at all levels of organizations. Lack thereof will create a void and sort of confusion series if the message from the top levels is received in a distorted fashion. The basic purpose of communication is to gain a response and elicit a response in the form of an action or words.
Organizations often have a framework of communication channels. Since communication is a dynamic process. Its flow needs to be regulated or else massive confusion will follow. An organizational framework will help solve problems, create a workflow, share information, and socialize.
Communication is not merely a verbal or oral activity. The expressions, tonality, and emotions carry a greater level of importance, as a lot is communicated through signs, symbols, and representations. Communication is also an inter-disciplinary activity that derives information from various disciplines like psychology, sociology, political science, and anthropology.
The importance of communication to an organization is explained in a couple of pointers, below. As an organization grows in size, it is essential to have communications systems in place. A large business organization carries out operations throughout the world. To maintain work going on a world level, effective communication is crucial.
Growing Specialization across operations, handling work across multiple departments. Sound communication is important to facilitate work through mutual co-operations and understanding among departments and ensure smooth functioning. It is a survival and growth guide in times of cut-throat competition. Only with great communication can you motivate change.
Communication is also of paramount importance in maintaining trade union relationships, human relations, and public relations and is great for personal growth too. It is in the end, any behaviour that results in the exchange of meaning.