Communication Theories

Human communication permeates the human condition. Human communication surrounds us and is an in-built aspect of everything human beings are and do. That makes any effort to explain, predict, or to some extent control human communication a pretty big order. How does one get a handle on the totality of human communication? - Frank Dance
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Arrow Theory


Introduction
I communicate by memos because I know Ive communicated. Then I know I did my job!!!

Effectiveness
  

Clearly and precisely put my thoughts into words. Speak with credibility. My talk forces action.

Arrow cont.


Communication Breakdowns
 

Failure= Blame Failure = Incompetence Pro-management Downward comm. Directive

Accoutrements
  

Arrow cont.


Origins
  

Past Training Communication Training Personality Traits

Arrow Cont.

Arrow Cont.


Scorecard
    

Effective Expression = Effective Commun. Passive Information Processors Words contain meaning Focus on clear expression Links words to actions

Arrow cont.


I didn't hate them because they were dumb, I didn't hate them because they had spilled our blood for nothing. I hated them because of their arrogance .. because they had convinced themselves that they actually knew what they were doing and that we were too minor to understand the "Big Picture.


- Chuck Horner

Circuit Theory


Introduction


Key terms - networking, going with the flow, making connections Emphases
   

Feedback over response Relationship over content Process over purpose Understanding over compliance

Circuit cont.


Examples
 

Elton - I just want everyone to get along Smart-talk trap = Sound smart, but no action

Effectiveness


 

Actively listen to employees in order to make them happy. Sensitive employee needs Open to employees.

Circuit cont.


Circuit Breakers
  

Poor climate Misunderstanding Hidden agendas Business schools Communication training Personality
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Origins
  

Circuit cont.

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Circuit cont.


Accoutrements
  

Change initiation Sources of innovation Direction of communication

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Circuit cont.
  

Evaluation Understanding = Effective Comm. Connections

 

Feedback Relationship issue Goals of comm. Understanding = agreement

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Disconnections
 

Dance Theory
    

Communication has multiple purposes. Comm. involves coordinating meanings. Comm. involves co-orientation. Comm. is rule-governed. Comm. has patterns.

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Dance cont.


Communicators develop skills that are often unconscious. The beauty of comm. is a function of the degree of coordination.

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Dance
 Fortunately,

there is no relationship between your ability to dance and your skill at communicating.

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