Communication in business

• Why is communication vital to business success?

  It influences information exchange and collaboration
• What are the main purposes of communication in business?

  • Share information (instructions, updates)
  • Make decisions
  • Motivate employees
  • Ensure customer service and satisfaction
  • Coordinate between departments
• What is internal communication in a business context?

  Communication within the business between employees
• What is external communication?

  Communication with individuals outside the business
• What are the methods of communication in business?

  • Verbal: Face-to-face, phone calls, video conferencing
  • Written: Emails, letters, reports, memos
  • Visual: Graphs, charts, presentations
• What are the advantages of verbal communication?

  Quick, allows tone and feedback
• What are the disadvantages of verbal communication?

  Not always recorded, may be misunderstood
• What are the advantages of written communication?

  Can be documented and referred back to
• What are the disadvantages of written communication?

  Time-consuming, tone may be misinterpreted
• How is visual communication used in business?

  To support verbal or written communication
• What factors influence the choice of communication method?

  • Nature and complexity of the message
  • Speed required
  • Need for record-keeping
  • Intended audience
  • Cost and availability of technology
• What are common barriers to effective communication?

  • Language barriers or jargon
  • Poor listening or reading skills
  • Technical problems (e.g., email server down)
  • Organisational structure (too many hierarchy levels)
  • Physical barriers (distance, noise)
• What is the impact of poor communication in a business?

  Decreased morale, mistakes, poor customer service
• What is digital communication in business?

  • Includes email, messaging apps, websites, social media
  • Benefits: Speed, cost-effective, large audience reach
  • Drawbacks: Information overload, security risks, impersonal tone
• What is the difference between formal and informal communication?

  • Formal: Structured, documented (e.g., reports)
  • Informal: Casual (e.g., chats between colleagues)
  • Both are important for smooth operations
• What should you consider when asked about communication in an exam?

  • Identify type or method of communication
  • Explain suitability or effectiveness
  • Consider advantages and disadvantages
  • Apply to a real or hypothetical situation
• What is the primary purpose of business communication?

  To share information internally and externally
• How does effective communication contribute to decision-making?

  It provides necessary information for informed choices
• What role does communication play in employee motivation?

  It enhances engagement and fosters a positive environment
• Why is building customer relationships important in business communication?

  It fosters loyalty and repeat business
• What are the types of business communication?

  • Letter (Formal Written Communication)
  • Email
  • Text Message
  • Phone Call
  • Meeting (Face-to-Face or Virtual)
  • Social Media
  • Website
• What is a key benefit of using letters for communication?

  Provides a formal record
• What is a limitation of using letters for communication?

  Slow delivery compared to digital methods
• What is a primary benefit of using email for communication?

  Quick and easy to use
• What is a limitation of email communication?

  Risk of misinterpretation and inbox clutter
• What is a key benefit of text messaging?

  Quick and convenient for brief updates
• What is a limitation of text messaging?

  Not suitable for detailed or formal communication
• What is a primary benefit of phone calls?

  Immediate feedback and personal interaction
• What is a limitation of phone calls?

  No written record and can be interrupted
• What is a key benefit of meetings?

  Promotes discussion and idea sharing
• What is a limitation of meetings?

  Time-consuming and requires scheduling
• What is a primary benefit of using social media for communication?

  Reaches a wide audience quickly
• What is a limitation of social media communication?

  Risk of negative publicity and requires monitoring
• What is a key benefit of a website for communication?

  Available 24/7 for public access
• What is a limitation of a website?

  Needs to be kept current and known