How to Overcome the 6 Barriers of Communication
How to Overcome the 6 Barriers of Communication
There are two kinds of barriers of communication: Mental and physical.
Mental communication barriers include:
- Inattentiveness.
- Prejudice.
- Closed mindedness.
Physical communication barriers include:
- Distractions.
- Lack of time.
- Language.
Mental communication barriers.
Inattentiveness.
All effective communication is dependent upon focusing attention on the message.
Inattentiveness is the act of failing to focus on the communication and instead, think of other things.
If anyone in the communication is NOT in focus, then the communication fails.
If we want to be good communicators, then we must first: focus our minds on the message.
Prejudice.
Successful communication depends on being open to different kinds of people.
Some people are prejudiced, because they don't like talking to people who look, sound or dress differently to themselves.
If we want to be good communicators, then we must clear our minds of prejudice.
Closed mindedness.
Successful communication depends upon us being willing to change our views when we have good reason to do so.
Many people are closed minded and refuse to change their views, even in the face of overwhelming evidence.
Communication is pointless if minds are fossilised and frozen into a static state.
If we want to be good communicators then we must be willing to abandon our existing beliefs, if we are presented with compelling new information.
Physical communication barriers:
Distractions.
If minds are not focused on the message, then communications fail. Distractions cause minds to lose their focus, so they are a barrier to successful communication.
Distractions come in many forms: body language, background music, televisions, other people's conversations.
If the communication is important, we should have it in a place that is free of distractions.
Lack of time.
All communications take time to successfully accomplish. If there is NOT enough time, then the communication cannot succeed.
Therefore, a lack of time is a common barrier to communication.
Whenever we want to have important conversations, then we should ensure we allocate sufficient time, to make them successful.
Language.
All communications rely on language. But not everyone speaks the same language, and even those who do, use the same words to mean slightly different things.
What one person means by "Fair" is very different to what another person thinks of when they hear the same word.
Successful communication requires that all parties agree the exact meaning of the terms being used.
We should give important terms clear and distinct definitions, so that everyone knows exactly what is meant.
This is more difficult than it sounds, because many words have only vague meanings in the minds of many. Words such as:
- Freedom.
- Equality.
- Poverty.
- Fair taxation system.
- Proper education for our kids.
These and other terms, need to have exact meanings if we are to achieve mutual understanding.
Language is the primary tool of effective communication, but it is also one of the barriers.
If we want to be excellent communicators, then we must define all our key terms.
Summary of how to overcome barriers to communication.
1. Focus on the message.
2. Clear our minds of prejudice.
3. If new compelling information is given, then we must be willing to abandon our existing beliefs.
4. Have conversations in places free of distractions.
5. Ensure we allocate sufficient time.
6. Define all our key terms.
Definition: communication barrier
A communication barrier is anything that stops the clear flow of meaning between people at work. It may be mental, like bias or lack of focus, or physical, like noise or short time. The block stays until someone notices it. Once named, you can remove it by taking simple, planned steps such as cutting noise, giving time or defining key words.
Show CG4D Definition
- It blocks the accurate transfer of meaning between people.
- It stems from mental states or physical conditions rather than message content.
- It persists until the people in the talk recognise its presence.
- It can be reduced or removed through planned corrective action.
Article Summary
Good talk lives or dies on six habits: focus on the message, drop prejudice, stay open to new facts, remove distractions, allow enough time and agree what each word means. Clear these mental and physical communication barriers and your ideas land fast, save hours and build trust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that frequently get asked about this topic during our training sessions.
What is the difference between mental and physical communication barriers?
How can I improve focus during a talk?
Why does prejudice block effective communication?
What steps reduce distractions in meetings?
How much time should I set aside for important conversations?
How can teams agree on language to avoid confusion?
What are the six quick actions to overcome communication barriers?
Thought of something that's not been answered? Ask Us Today!
Did You Know: Key Statistics
The 2024 State of Business Communication report by Grammarly Business shows staff lose an average of 10 working hours each week dealing with poor or unclear messages, costing mid-sized firms about £19,400 per worker each year. The 2023 LinkedIn Workplace Learning Report says 92% of leaders believe strong communication is now more important than technical skill when they hire.About the Author: Chris Farmer
Chris Farmer is the founder of the Corporate Coach Group and has many years' experience in training leaders and managers, in both the public and private sectors, to achieve their organisational goals, especially during tough economic times. He is also well aware of the disciplines and problems associated with running a business.
Over the years, Chris has designed and delivered thousands of training programmes and has coached and motivated many management teams, groups and individuals. His training programmes are both structured and clear, designed to help delegates organise their thinking and, wherever necessary, to improve their techniques and skills.
Blogs by Email
Do you want to receive an email whenever we post a new blog? The blogs contain article 5-10 minutes long - ideal for reading during your coffee break!
Further Reading in Communication - Clear Communication
-
A Course on Clear, Confident Communication
Master clear communication with five proven principles. Use numbers, define terms and speak affirmative to cut costly errors and win support at work daily.
Read Article > -
The Most Important Question
Stop guessing and start asking. Learn how one simple question drives clear communication, cuts costly misunderstanding, boosts credibility and saves hours at
Read Article > -
Six Step Formula for Investigative Interviews
Use a six-step investigative interview method: listen, take notes, probe answers, flag contradictions, set the timeline and capture a narrative as evidence.
Read Article > -
Success Through Communication
Develop clear communication skills to share facts, feelings and vision. Use words, tone and body language to lift teamwork, cut errors and speed up success.
Read Article > -
Communication Skills in Business
Learn why feedback in business boosts performance and how to give constructive criticism, avoid destructive remarks and use praise to inspire engaged teams.
Read Article >
Looking for Communication Skills Training?
If you're looking to develop your Clear Communication Skills, you may find this Communication Skills Training Course beneficial:
Open Training Course Pricing and Availability
Next Open Course Starts in 10 days, London - Central, places available