In this are you’ll learn about Functions of Communication. The functions of communication are to persuade, inform, and motivate, which help employees make better decisions and work more efficiently. Learn about the three functions of communication and explore examples of each function.
What are communication functions?
Communication functions refer to how people use language for different purposes also refers to how language is affected by different time, place, and situation used to control the behavior of people used to regulate the nature and amount of activities people engage in.
- Motivation
Managers use communication to motivate workers to achieve peak performance. By clarifying the expectations of employees and providing incentives for meeting or exceeding expectations, communication can help companies reach specific objectives.
For example, by communicating to salespeople that they’ll receive a 10 percent bonus if they reach their annual sales goal, it helps the company reach its overall sales goals.
- Control
A company uses communication as a way to maintain control over employees and their work environment. Written human resources policies and procedures dictate how employees are permitted to act in the workplace. Job descriptions outline the parameters of an employee’s job functions. Performance reviews control whether an employee receives a raise or attains a promotion.
- Interaction
Communication allows employees to interact with customers and each other. A customer service department communicates with customers to help them resolve issues.
Example: A business letter can be used to introduce a company to a potential customer. Communication is essential for employees who work together on a project or during the training process.
Employees may interact socially both at work and outside the workplace.
- Providing Information
Information is dispersed throughout an organization through written or verbal communication. A human resources representative or business owner may send out a memo explaining a change in the company’s health plan. A business meeting may be used as a way to communicate a new office procedure.
Example:A webinar allows a company to conduct a meeting over the Internet with employees or customers who cannot attend in person.
- Providing Feedback
Communication allows for employees, managers and business owners to give and receive feedback on changes that are being considered or have already been implemented.
For example, if a small business owner is considering the purchase of a new computer system, he may first consult with his employees to determine what features the system should include and what help they may need in learning the system.
