What are the Components of the Communication Process?

The communication process involves sending information or message between two or more individuals. The process occurs through the components that interrelate systematically to allow the parties involved to understand each other and act according to the intended objective of the communication process. Six components are involved in communication, including the sender, the message, the medium, the receiver, the feedback, and the environment. The sender is the individual or a group of people to send a message to a number person or a group. The message is the idea or information the sender intends to convey (Steinberg, 2007). The medium is also referred to as the channels through which the sender conveys the message to the intended receiver(s). The receiver is the other party(s), to whom the sender sends the intended message. After getting the message, the receiver is expected to send back a message to demonstrate that the message has been received and understood as intended by the sender (Steinberg, 2007). The last communication component is the environment in which the message is sent and received.

Understanding the components of communication can assist an individual to be a good communicator. As a police officer, understanding the components assist in establishing an effective interpersonal relationship with the members of the public (Krizan, 2006). For example, a member of the public may intend to provide important security-based information. Therefore, the officers will always listen carefully whenever a public member sends information. The media used in this case can be face-to-face, through writing, or via electronic media (Krizan, 2006). On receiving the information, the officer issues immediate feedback to show appreciation and understanding of the information shared. Responding to the message is also important because the sender/member of the public can correct it in case of some misunderstanding. The police officer would also assess the environment under which the communication process is taking place and, where possible, recommend a change of the environment.

 

References

Krizan, A. C. (2006). Business communication. Mason, OH: Thomson South-Western.

Steinberg, S. (2007). An introduction to communication studies. Cape Town, South Africa: Juta.