Describe the different sources of
noise that interfere with the effectiveness of the communication process.
ANSWER
Common
sources of noise include information filtering, poor choice of channels, poor
written or oral expression, failures to recognize nonverbal signals, and
physical distractions.
1. Information filtering: It is the
intentional distortion of information to make it appear most favorable to the
recipient. The problem with information filtering is someone telling the boss
what they think he or she wants to hear. Whether the reason is a fear of retribution
for bringing bad news, unwillingness to identify personal mistakes, or just a
general desire to please, the end result is the same. The higher-level gets
biased and inaccurate information from below and ends up making bad decisions.
2. Poor choice of channels: A communication
channel is the pathway or medium through which a message is conveyed from
sender to receiver. Good communicators choose the right channel, or combination
of channels, to accomplish their intended purpose. Written channels—paper or
electronic—are most acceptable for simple messages that are easy to convey and
for those that require extensive dissemination quickly. They are also important
as documentation when formal policies or directives are being conveyed. Spoken
channels such as face-to-face or virtual meetings work best for messages that
are complex and difficult to convey and where immediate feedback to the sender
is valuable. They are more personal and more likely to be perceived as
supportive or even inspirational.
3. Poor written or oral expression:
Communication will only be effective when the sender expresses the message in a
way that is clearly understood by the receiver. Words must be well chosen and
properly used, something we all too often fail at.
4. Failure to recognize nonverbal signals:
Nonverbal communication takes place through gestures, facial expressions, body
posture, eye contact, and the use of interpersonal space. Mixed message results
when words communicate one message while actions, body language, or appearance
communicate something else.
5. Physical distractions: Any number of
physical distractions can interfere with communication effectiveness. Some of
these distractions include telephone interruptions, drop-in visitors, and lack
of privacy.
Source: Management, 11th Edition
& 12th Edition- John R. Schermerhorn
