Seven C’s of Effective Communication
1.Clarity –
a) Clarity of thought – aim of communication, what is to be communicated
b) Clarity of expression-
Use simple and familiar words- e.g.-visualise- see, facilitate- help,
remuneration-pay, domicile- home
Use short sentences-17-20 words, one sentence one idea
2. Completeness-
a) Provide all necessary information-answer the 5w’s(who, what, when,
where and why)
b) Answer all the questions asked- stated questions and implied
c) Give something extra, when desirable- if sender message incomplete use
judgement and provide extra information
e.g.- How come my request for an interview letter did not receive a
response? Whose letter, when was it sent, whom was it sent to?
3. Conciseness-
a) Eliminate wordy expressions- i) Use single word substitutes for phrases-
e.g.-at this time – now, due to the fact that – because, in due course -soon.
ii) Omit trite, unnecessary expressions-
e.g.- Allow me to say how helpful your response was.
Your response was helpful.
iii) Replace wordy conventional statements with concise versions.
e.g.- Please find attached the list you requested
The list you requested is attached.
iv) Omit “that” and “which” clauses
e.g.- The receipt that is enclosed documents your purchase.
The enclosed receipt documents your purchase.
b) Include only relevant material- stick to the purpose, delete irrelevant facts
and rambling sentences, omit obvious information.
c) Avoid unnecessary repetition
4. Consideration-
a) Focus on “You” instead of “I”
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e.g.- We have 4 different saving schemes in wh. our customers can invest
their savings.
You have a choice of 4 saving schemes in wh. you can invest.
I want you to express my sincere thanks for the kind words.
Thank you for your kind words.
b) Emphasise positive, pleasant facts-
e.g.- When you travel on company expense, you will not receive approval for
first class fare.—When you travel on company expense, your approved fare is
for tourist class.
5. Concreteness-
Give specific, definite information, clear facts, figures and numbers
6. Correctness- use right level of language
Check accuracy of figures, facts and words
7. Courtesy-
a) Be sincerely tactful, thoughtful, and appreciative
b) Use expressions that show respect
c) Choose non-discriminatory expressions.
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