Supervisory Communication

The average person spends most of his working day communicating. Of that, he spends 10% on writing, 15% on reading, 30% on speaking and 45% of the time on listening.

Communication is the process of creating meaning between two or more people through the expression and interpretation of messages.

Communication in the workplace can be defined as the multi-directional and multi-cultural transactions and interactions that occur within and between business people and/or companies. These exchanges have a job-related message as a core ingredient, whether the exchanges are local, global, interpersonal or electronic.

Communication with others can consume a huge portion of your workday. Consider how effective you would be if you were not allowed to communicate in any manner.

Human beings are so accustomed to communicating with the people around them that they take the communication process for granted. Communication, however, is a complex process that needs to be understood, if meaning is to be successfully shared and understood. When the process is understood, people can improve their communication skills, whether spoken or written, and can become more effective as a communicator.

Communication serves as a control measure in both formal and informal ways. It is the vehicle whereby employees are informed about the rules, procedures and policies that they are obliged to follow. It also becomes the vehicle whereby employees inform management about their concerns and grievances when rules and policies are not adhered to, e.g. grievance procedure. Informal communication also informs employees about the informal norms and standards that exist in the workplace.

Communication is central to motivating employees. It clarifies goals and objectives and provides feedback on performance.

Communication is also an essential vehicle for the emotional expression of social needs. It provides a channel for members of work groups to vent their frustration and express their sources of satisfaction in the workplace.

Communication facilitates the decision-making by providing information, which individuals and groups require to identify and evaluate alternative choices.

Other benefits of communication:

• Removes misunderstanding.
• Get to know each other better.
• Enables us to express feelings.
• Encourages mutual understanding.
• Builds relationships.