Principles of Communication

Principles of Communication

1. Principles of clarity

The idea or message to be communicated should be defined. It should be worded in such a way that the receiver understands the same thing which the sender wants to convey.

2. Principles of attention

In order to make communication effective, the receiver’s attention should be drawn towards message. People are different in behaviour, attention, emotions etc. so they may respond differently to the message. For example, if a superior is very punctual in coming to the office then subordinates will also develop such customs/habits. It is said that ‘actions speak louder than words.

3. Principles of feedback

The principles of feedback is very important to make the communication effective. There should be feedback information from the receiver to know whether he has understood the message in the same sense in which the sender has meant it.

4. Principles of informality

Formal communication is generally used for transmitting messages and other information. Sometimes formal communication may not achieve the desired results, informal communication may prove effective in such situations.

5. Principles of consistency

The principle states that communication should always be consistent with the policies, plans, programmes and objectives of the organisation and not in conflict with them.

6. Principle of timeliness

The principle states that communication should be done at proper time so that it helps in implementing plans. Any delay in communication may not serve any purpose.

7. Principles of adequacy

The information communicated should be adequate and complete in all respects. Inadequate information may delay action and create confusion. Inadequate information also affects efficiency of the receiver. So adequate information is essential for taking proper decisions and making plans.