Barrier

COMMUNICATION
Barriers to Effective Communication
Objectives
• Define the term communication barrier.
• Describe the types of communication barriers.
• Outline ways to overcome communication barriers.
Communication Barrier
• This is anything that impedes the communication process.
• Though they cannot be totally avoided, the sender and the
receiver can work to minimize them.
Types of Communication Barriers
• Perceptual Bias
• Semantics
• Language
• Lack of subject knowledge
• Organisational barriers
• Interpersonal barriers
Perceptual Bias
• Means bias against or for something based on the sensory
inputs.
• Stereotyping is the most common example of perceptual bias.
This is when a person assumes that the other person has
certain characteristics, based on the group to which they
belong.
Semantics
• This is the study of the meaning of a sign to achieve a desired
effect on an audience, especially through the use of words with
double meanings.
• Communication problems occur when people use either the
same word in different ways, or different words in the same way.
Language
• When a person uses different language, vocabulary,
inappropriate words, accent or dialect while conversing or
writing, it could lead to misunderstanding between the sender
and receiver.
Lack of subject knowledge
• If the sender lacks subject knowledge then he/she may not be
able to convey the message clearly.
• The receiver as well is likely to receive an unclear or mixed
message.
Organisational Barriers
• These include:
– Poor organisational culture or climate
– Stringent rules
– Inadequate facilities/opportunities for growth
– Poor lighting
– Staff shortages, outdated equipment
– Background noise
Interpersonal Barriers
• These are barriers between those within the organisation.
• Barriers from employers:
– Lack of trust in employees
– No consideration to employees’ needs
– Information overload
• Barriers from employees:
– Lack of motivation
– Lack of cooperation
– Fear of penalty
– Poor relationship with employers
Overcoming Communication Barriers
BARRIERS RULES TO FOLLOW
Bias – Consider the recipient (culture and opinions)
– Check that you have a clear understanding of the
information.
Language & – Keep it Short and Simple (KISS)
Literacy – Avoid jargon and complex words or slangs
– Use the written method for long or complex
information.
Time – Choose the best time to get the recipient’s attention
constraints and give time to respond.
– Use electronic method for urgent messages
– Check that the messages has been received and read.
Identify the barrier in each case

A semantics
B lack of cooperation
C perceptual bias
D language
Identify the barrier in each case

A semantics
B lack of cooperation
C perceptual bias
D language
Identify the barrier in each case

A semantics
B poor lighting
C perceptual bias
D lack of subject
knowledge
Identify the barrier in each case

A information overload
B lack of motivation
C perceptual bias
D language
Let’s Review
1. What is a communication barrier?
2. List the different types of communication barriers.
3. Explain at least FOUR types of communication barriers.