Communication Cambridge IGCSE Business Studies (9–1) revision
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In plain words
Communication is getting a message from one person to another so that it is understood. In a business that means instructions reaching the staff, orders reaching suppliers and information reaching customers.
When it fails, people do the wrong thing, or nothing, and customers go elsewhere.
6 things to know
- Effective communication is when the receiver understands the message and can respond: there is feedback.
- Internal communication is between people inside the business. External communication is with customers, suppliers and others outside it.
- Verbal methods (face to face, telephone, meetings, video calls) are quick and allow questions, but leave no record.
- Written methods (letters, emails, reports, notices) give a permanent record and can carry detail, but feedback is slower.
- Methods based on information technology (email, video conferencing, messaging, social media) are fast and cheap over long distances, but need equipment and bring security risks.
- Barriers to communication: jargon or unclear language, the wrong method, noise, a long chain of command, and a receiver who is not listening. They are reduced by clear language, a suitable method, and asking for feedback.
Tips and tricks
- Choose the method by what the message needs: speed, a record, confidentiality, detail or feedback. A dismissal needs to be face to face and in writing, not on a noticeboard.
- Feedback is what tells the sender that the message was understood. Without it, communication is only one-way.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Communication: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
Which is an example of external communication?
The supplier is outside the business.
Which is an advantage of written communication?
The message can be kept and checked later.
Which method is best for discussing a complicated problem with a colleague in another country?
It allows discussion and immediate feedback without travel.
Which is a barrier to communication?
The receiver may not understand the words used.
Why is feedback important?
Without it the sender cannot know the message got through.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
3 questions, 8 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Communication
Cambridge IGCSE Business Studies (9–1) 0986 · 8 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
Define effective communication.[2]
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The message is received and understood by the receiver, who is able to give feedback to the sender.
Explain one advantage and one disadvantage of using email to communicate with employees.[3]
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Advantage: it is quick and cheap, can reach many people at once, and leaves a written record. Disadvantage: employees may not read it, and there is no immediate feedback to show that they have understood.
Explain two barriers to effective communication and how each could be reduced.[3]
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Technical language may not be understood by the receiver: use simple, clear words. A long chain of command can distort the message as it is passed on: speak to the people concerned directly, or reduce the number of levels.
Answers: Communication
- 1. The message is received and understood by the receiver, who is able to give feedback to the sender.
- 2. Advantage: it is quick and cheap, can reach many people at once, and leaves a written record. Disadvantage: employees may not read it, and there is no immediate feedback to show that they have understood.
- 3. Technical language may not be understood by the receiver: use simple, clear words. A long chain of command can distort the message as it is passed on: speak to the people concerned directly, or reduce the number of levels.