1. Common understanding in communication refers to a shared interpretation of information between two or more individuals. It is crucial for effective communication as it ensures that all parties involved have a similar understanding of the message being conveyed. When there is common understanding, misinterpretations and misunderstandings are minimized, leading to more successful communication exchanges.
2. Group affiliations can interfere with effective communication in the workplace by creating biases, stereotypes, and cliques that hinder open and honest communication. When individuals strongly identify with a particular group within an organization, they may prioritize loyalty to the group over objective communication. This can lead to favoritism, exclusion of others, and a lack of willingness to consider diverse perspectives, all of which can negatively impact teamwork and overall communication effectiveness.
3. Three hand or body gestures to avoid while talking face-to-face with people are:
- Crossing your arms: This gesture can signal defensiveness, resistance, or closed-mindedness, which may create a barrier to effective communication.
- Pointing fingers: Pointing directly at someone can be perceived as aggressive, accusatory, or confrontational, leading to a breakdown in communication and potential conflict.
- Fidgeting excessively: Constantly moving or fidgeting with hands or other body parts can be distracting and convey nervousness, lack of confidence, or impatience, which may detract from the message you are trying to communicate.
