How can communication barriers be overcome?

There are six main barriers to effective interpersonal communications, namely :-

1. differing perceptions 2. language differences 3. noise 4. emotionality 5. distrust 6. inconsistent communication.

Methods to resolve the six barriers :

1. differing perception : in the message, we must try to explain it so that even those with different views and experiences can understand it. We may need to learn about the background of those with whom we are communicating so that we can empathise with them and see the situation from that person's point of view.

2. difference in languages : simple direct natural language should be used. if technical or unconcentional terms cannot be avoided, they should be explained. Besides, being sensitive to the situation may also help.

3. noise : reduce the source (shut down machine, increase or decrease illumination..etc), increase the strength of transmission (using amplifier brighter OHP) or move to a more conducive environment.

4. emotionality : by increasing our awareness of it could help eliminate negative effects of emotinality. Being sensitive to one's moods and being aware of how they might influence others before communicating an important message is helpful. Prevention better than cure. Hence, by creating an atmosphere in which destructive emotionality is unlikely help to ensure that emotionality will not come a barrier to communication. Foster a supportive environment and give constructive feedbacks.

5. inconsistent communication : best done by being aware of the differences in our verbals and non-verbals and take steps to reduce them. Our gestures, clothing, posture, style, facial expressions should agree with what we are saying because jour audience will not just listen to our words but they will receive other signals like the non-verbals we are projecting and they are not consistent with our verbal message, then the audience or receiver will not know what exactly to make of what we are trying to say. Eg, if we greet someone "good morning" with a smile we project both a friendly face with friendly words and the receiver knows what to make of that, if we were to greet someone with 'GOOD MORNING" and an angry face the  receiver will just not know whether we are wishing them well or we mean them harm.

6. distrust : By and large, how the receiver perceives the message form the source depends on the level of trust they have in the source. If we do not trust the sender, we will tend to interpret his words negatively when he could very well be honest with us. Employees will generally believe the manager's words but only with regards to official working information; they may not trust him on a personal basis. Also, a consultant or expert opinion will be given more credibility than someone whom we do not perceive as being knowledgeable in that field. Above all, in communication as in everything else, the principle of 'once bitten, twice shy' is equally valid.