Portfolio entry # 5 How miscommunication happens?

 Miscommunication occurs frequently and it can lead to confussion, animosity and misunderstanding. But why miscommunication happens?

 To begin with, we should describe how communication happens. The transmition model sees communication as a message moving from one person to another. However, human communication is a more complex act. According to the transactional model, when we communicate we receive feedback and through this transaction we create meaning. We should share a dialogue with others, overcome any barriers and reach a common understanding; but it is not always possible.

 Messages are subjective. In this exchange of meanings, senders and receivers will have their own interpretations according to their culture, community, experience, and family background. In addition, the relationship with the other person, the semantic meaning and connotation of the words used, emotions, the amount of people involved and the external noises will influence and affect the interpretation and decoding of the message.

 Luckily, there are some basic rules for better communication:

 1 - Recognize the difference between passive hearing and active listening. Communication can be verbal and non-verbal.

 2 - Listen with your eyes, ears and gut. Communication is more than just words.

 3 - Take time to understand as you try to be understood. Communication is a two-way process.

 4 - Be aware of your personal perceptual filters. Communication is affected by your subjectivity.