THE MESSAGE (Communication)

THE MESSAGE (Communication):

This is the stimulus transmitted from the sources to the receiver. It could be an idea, attitude, feeling, intention, etc. The message is that intangible product which we send when send when speak. We also send messages when we draw pictures write letters or gesticulate. A message could be sent through our action or interaction.

Essentially, a message is a complex stimulus that is first conceived as ideas in our heads. A message intended for the receiver therefore, must be code in such a manner to ensure that receiver successfully decodes it. The source must carefully plan it to ensure that it is and appropriate for understanding.

MESSAGE VARIABLE

Message has three variables the content the structure and the message style. Message content: This is the material contained in the message, which the source expressed. It is made up of ideas, information, and thoughts to be shared, a good message must have a subject matter. Message structure: The message could be simple or complex, direct or circuitous, progressive or redundant, clear or confusing planned or ornate smooth or awkward and pleasing or irritating.

MESSAGE STYLE: This is also referred to as message treatment. It involves the tradition method in which the message is delivered. Generally, style involves three step introduction, body and conclusion. Proper coordination of these elements of style enhances your effectiveness in communication.

THE MEDIUM / CHANNEL

Generally, the channel is the vehicle or pathway through which a message travels to its destination. Examples of channels of communication are: face to face, television, radio, letter, newspaper, magazine etc. any of these channels chosen to convey your message may depend on the following:

a.     Availability which is at your disposal?

b.     Cost: which would be cost-effect?

c.      Choice: which do you prefer irrespective of cost?

d.     Audience: which is received by the majority of your audience?

e.     Credibility: which is most believable and would have the most impact on your audience? 

f.       Adaptability: which is most adaptable to the purpose and content of the message?

THE RECEIVER / DECODER

The receiver is the receivers’ purpose to the sources message. Feedback is a very important process as it shows the level of success of the communication encounter.

NOISE

Noise is technically, an impairment of communication fidelity.