Importance of Business Communication

Communication is essential for life in general but in business settings, it is critical. Communication is more than just a matter of speaking and hearing, especially within a business setting. Good communication, on the other hand, means that your message will be sent and that the people or organizations understand the message in its entirety. Further, they are much more likely to respond in a positive manner if the message was communicated effectively. A poorly communicated message will likely result in an unfavorable response.


Today, most businesses are relying on the Internet as a way to communicate. This can be especially trying when trying to communicate effectively as there is no body language to rely on and no spoken words. The reader can only then make assumptions based on your words. Electronic communication can be difficult and challenging but can also result in favorable outcome for all.


Body language plays a large role in communication. If you are making person to person contact, you are then able to read non verbal body language and possibly rely on that for a clue as to the effectiveness of your message. Watch for disinterest, eye rolling, body slumping, lack of interest, looking in another direction, these are all non verbal body language and not a very good sign either. If you are delivering an oral presentation to a group, you can feed off of their non verbal body language and determine if you are captivating them or simply boring them. All you have to do is pay attention and if you communicate clearly and are organized, the result will likely be a favorable one.


Cultural communication is another area where problems can arise in communicating. It is best when dealing with various ethnic groups or cultures to learn about them before you attempt communications. What one culture embraces, another finds offense to and this applies to both verbal and non verbal communications.


Be proactive when approaching other cultures. Remember their learning styles, the religious beliefs, and their families are completely different. Do not rely on stereotypes and do not identify them based on their population. Differences are evident within all groups so avoid classifying them together as one. To be effective with cross cultural communications you have to be diverse and open to new ideas.