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What is Communication and Functions
of Communication
Communicate means to share. Communication is the process of
exchanging of messages, ideas, facts, opinions or feelings. It is the
mechanism of transferring meaningful information from one
person to another. Poor communication is probably the most
frequently cited source of interpersonal conflict.

Functions of Communication
Communication serves four major functions within a group or organization. These are :

1. Control
2. Motivation
3. Emotional expression
4. Information

Let’s discuss these functions one by one

Control
When employees communicate any job-related grievance to their immediate boss,
follow their job description, or comply with company policies, communication is
performing a control function.
Motivation
Communication fosters motivation by clarifying to employees what they must do, how
well they are doing it, and how they can improve if performance is subpar. The
formation of specific goals, feedback on progress toward the goals, and reward for
desired behavior all stimulate motivation and require communication.

Emotional Expression
Communication is a fundamental mechanism by which members of group shows their
satisfaction and frustrations. Communication, therefore, provides for the emotional
expression of feelings and fulfillment of social needs.

Information
Communication provides the information individuals and groups need to make
decisions by transmitting the data needed to identify and evaluate choices. Thus
communication helps to facilitate decision making

Language and hearing barriers

If someone has a hearing disability or is not fluent in your language, they may have a
challenging time understanding what you’re saying. Even if they understand some of
your message, there’s a chance they may miss critical information.

In these circumstances, it’s important to make all the necessary accessibility

arrangements to ensure you’re able to effectively communicate with each other. For
example, you may request the services of a translator or sign language interpreter.

Industry jargon

Every industry has its own set of unique words and phrases. While using these terms
can seem more efficient at times, it’s often confusing for those outside the field or with
little or no professional experience. Using jargon or highly technical language can
abstract your messages and make it more challenging for people to understand
important information.

Instead, try and avoid jargon and break down abbreviations. For example, while
someone in marketing or sales may be familiar with the term “KPI,” an employee in
product development may not know it stands for “key performance indicator” or that it’s
a value an organization measures to determine how well a business is achieving a
business objective.

By taking the time to explain the term, you can ensure everyone comprehends your
message. Doing so also helps people feel more included, confident and able to be
present and productive.

THE FIVE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF COMMUNICATION

1. REGULATION/CONTROL
Communication can be used to control
human behavior. It can be used to regulate
the nature and amount of activities humans
engage in. It ranges from simple requests to
laws governing countries and large
territories.
Basic Forms of Regulation/Control
Doctors’ prescriptions
Parents’ instructions to their children
Friends giving advice on what course of action to take
Scolding
Employers orders to their employees
Customers making orders Language Forms
COMMANDS OR IMPERATIVES
Please come in
Get a chair
Take your seat
Run
RHETORICAL QUESTIONS
Why don’t we go to the lobby
now?
Can you pass the salt?
Can I have a moment of silence ?
STATEMENTS OR DECLARATIVES
I want to be alone.
It’s hot in here.
You need to hurry.
2. SOCIAL INTERACTION
Social interaction as a function of
communication refers to the use of
communication to socialize or interact with
other people.
Basic Forms of Social Interaction
Invitations
Greetings
Appreciations
Encouragement
Marriage proposals etc.
3. MOTIVATION
Motivation as a function of communication
refers to a person using language to express
desires, needs, wants, likes and dislikes,
inclinations, choices, and aspirations.
Basic Forms of Motivation
Expressing one’s ambitions (I dream of… )
Talking about preferences ( This is good over the other )
Ordering in a fast food restaurant ( I want… )
Asking for milk ( Can I…? )
Making petitions
Expressing a need (I need… )
4. INFORMATION
Communication can be used in giving and
getting information.
Basic Forms of Information
GIVING INFORMATION USING
STATEMENT S
I have three sisters
For every action, there is a reaction.
GIVING INFORMATION USING RHETORICAL
QUESTION
Did you know that some earphones
can be used as microphones?
GETTING INFORMATION USING QUESTIONS
Where is Mrs. Ching?
Did it rain last night?
Is it windy outside?
GETTING INFORMATION USING IMPERATIVES
Show me how to tie a knot.
Give me information regarding the weather.
GETTING INFORMATION USING DECLARATIVES
I don’t know where to find the city hall.
I need to understand how my bill was computed.
5. EMOTIONAL EXPRESSION
Emotional expression as a function of
communication refers to the use of
expressions such as love, fear, anger, joy,
hope, or any other emotion.
Basic Examples of Emotional Expression
Yes!
Oh no!
Ouch!
Expletives
Really?