The Role of Effective Communication
discussion reply
Assignment Instructions: The student must then post a reply of at least 300 words. Each reply must incorporate at least 1 scholarly citation(s) in APA format. Any sources cited must have been published within the last five years. Acceptable sources include the course textbook, the Bible, or peer-reviewed journal published within the past five years. Include clear topic sentences for each paragraph, supporting sentences, and a conclusion sentence/paragraph.
Baso Harper
Aug 29 4:40pm
Last reply Sep 2 8:02pm
Reply from Baso Harper
Hello Class,
The Role of Effective Communication in the Age of Information
In the modern age, information is more accessible than ever before. However, as Reece and Reece (2017) highlight, the challenge is not in acquiring information but in assimilating it effectively amidst the overwhelming stream of data we encounter daily. This reality is significantly impacted by the rapid advances in digital technologies, mobile devices, apps, and social media networks, which have revolutionized the ways we communicate. Despite these technological advancements, effective communication, whether on a personal or organizational level, continues to hinge on the human element of interactions. This fundamental truth underscores the growing importance of communication skills in today\’s interconnected world.
The Importance of Human-Centered Communication
Effective communication within organizations requires a nuanced approach that balances technological proficiency with an understanding of human behavior. The human aspect of communication cannot be understated, as it plays a critical role in how information is interpreted, internalized, and acted upon. Reece and Reece (2017) argue that, despite the proliferation of communication tools, the effectiveness of communication is ultimately determined by an individual\’s ability to manage and respond to the steady influx of information. This necessitates not only technical skills but also emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and interpersonal skills.
Incorporating the human aspect of communication into organizational practices can lead to more meaningful and effective interactions, both within the organization and with external stakeholders. For instance, leaders who prioritize clear, empathetic communication are more likely to inspire trust and commitment among their teams, leading to better organizational outcomes. Similarly, organizations that understand the emotional and psychological needs of their customers can tailor their communication strategies to foster stronger, more loyal relationships.
Social Media\’s Influence on Organizational Decision-Making
Social media has become a powerful tool that influences organizational decision-making, often in real-time. Two notable examples illustrate this phenomenon. First, consider the case of United Airlines in 2017, when a passenger was forcibly removed from an overbooked flight. The incident was captured on video by other passengers and quickly went viral on social media, leading to a massive public outcry. The negative publicity forced United Airlines to reassess its customer service policies and make immediate changes to how it handles overbooked flights and passenger treatment. This incident underscores how social media can rapidly influence organizational decisions, pushing companies to react to public sentiment and media coverage.
Another example is the 2018 incident involving Starbucks, where two African American men were arrested while waiting for a friend at a Philadelphia store. The incident, which was also widely shared on social media, sparked accusations of racial profiling and led to nationwide protests. In response, Starbucks quickly moved to close all of its stores for a day to conduct racial bias training for its employees. This decision was heavily influenced by the social media backlash and the need to address public concerns regarding the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
These examples demonstrate that social media is not just a platform for communication but also a powerful force that can shape organizational policies and decisions. Companies must now consider the potential social media implications of their actions and decisions, as the public\’s reaction can significantly impact their reputation and bottom line.
The Necessity of Human Considerations in Organizational Decision-Making
I strongly agree with the statement by Reece and Reece (2017) that the human aspect should be integral to an organization\’s decision-making process. Organizations are not only driven by profit but are also social entities that impact and are impacted by the communities they serve. Incorporating human considerations into strategic decisions ensures that an organization remains socially responsible, ethical, and responsive to the needs and expectations of its stakeholders.
The Bible emphasizes the importance of considering others in our actions and decisions. Philippians 2:4 (New International Version, 2011) advises, “Not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” This principle can be applied to organizational decision-making, where considering the well-being and perspectives of employees, customers, and the broader community can lead to more ethical and sustainable practices.
Human considerations in decision-making can lead to more sustainable and ethical business practices. For instance, when companies prioritize employee well-being, they tend to experience higher levels of employee satisfaction, retention, and productivity. Additionally, organizations that take into account the social and environmental impact of their operations are more likely to gain the trust and loyalty of consumers, leading to long-term success.
Incorporating the human aspect into the strategic direction of an organization’s mission is not only morally right but also makes good business sense. As businesses navigate the complexities of the modern world, those that prioritize effective communication, empathy, and ethical considerations are better positioned to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and socially conscious global market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while technological advancements have transformed the way we communicate, the human element remains central to effective communication and decision-making within organizations. The examples of United Airlines and Starbucks illustrate the powerful influence of social media on organizational behavior, highlighting the need for businesses to be attuned to public sentiment and ethical considerations. By integrating the human aspect into their strategic direction, organizations can foster trust, loyalty, and long-term success, aligning their operations with the values and expectations of their stakeholders. This approach aligns with biblical principles that emphasize the importance of integrity, reputation, and considering others in our actions, ensuring that organizations not only thrive but also contribute positively to society.
References
Reece, B. L., & Reece, M. (2017). Effective Human Relations: Interpersonal and Organizational Applications (13th ed.). Cengage Learning.
New International Version. (2011). Bible Gate. Philippians 2:4.
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%202%3A4&version=NIV
Paper Format: APA
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