Barriers to Communication (Edexcel IGCSE Business)

Explanation

• Employees may feel hesitant to communicate with their superiors due to fear of repercussions or a perceived lack of accessibility

  • This can impede the free flow of information and ideas within the business

• There may be too many layers in the hierarchy, meaning messages take a long time to get from the sender to the receiver

• The use of technical terminology or industry-specific jargon can be misunderstood
  

  • Industry- or business-specific acronyms can confuse new staff

• Staff in businesses that operate across international borders may speak different languages

• Loud machinery or a crowded workspace can interfere with effective communication
  

• Distractions, including phone notifications and email alerts, can divert attention 

• The absence of feedback can affect understanding and lead to misunderstandings
  
  

• Messages may require urgent clarification or correction to avoid mistakes being made

• Cultural norms and expectations can affect communication style

• Busy work schedules and competing priorities can limit the time available for communication

• Technical issues such as poor internet connections, malfunctioning equipment or unfamiliarity with platforms can slow communication

Reducing or Removing the Barrier

• Encourage two-way feedback so employees feel comfortable talking to various employees, regardless of their position in the organisation

  • E.g. Regular one-to-one meetings with line managers

• The use of jargon or terms which are too technical should be minimised

• An agreed-upon language for key communications is implemented

• Choose communication methods that are relevant to the workplace

  • Setup a room on the factory floor in which conversations can be had

• Limit distractions such as pop-up messages and unnecessary emails

  • Trailfinders in the UK does not allow their employees to keep their personal phones on them during working hours - they are stored in a locker

• Where appropriate, select methods that allow for feedback

• Encourage an open culture where employees are confident in giving feedback

• Build a culture of teamwork and respect amongst employees

• Include cultural awareness in training and development programmes

• Schedule meetings in shared calendars

• Amend workloads to ensure effective communication can take place

• Invest in good-quality ICT systems and conduct regular updates and maintenance to avoid slow or poor-quality connections

• Provide training for employees who need it

  • E.g. How to use a new communications app and send instant messages to other employees