As I wrap up my series for the year, take a look at the lighthearted cartoons below, and let’s assess the ‘communication’ moments that make us chuckle – and perhaps cringe! May these visuals inspire you to stay mindful of potential communication barriers in your daily interactions.
On the job
Mere, the receptionist, is making efforts to ensure an effective communication when taking the telephone reservation. Let us review the dialogue in the first box to identify the communication challenge.
Receptionist: Hallo, this is Pacific Hotel.
John Smith: This is John Smith speaking. I would like to book a room for Sandy.
Receptionist: Sorry, Sir, who is that for? (asking for clarification)
John Smith: Me! I want it for Sandy, the day, before Mindy.
Receptionist: Do you mean Sunday the 18th, Sir? (Clarification)
John Smith: Yeah.
Receptionist: No problem, Sir.
Discussion
The communication problem could be a physical barrier due to poor reception or a language barrier (since it seems John’s pronunciation of some words are unique, different from Mere’s).
Frustration might lead to hang-ups or miscommunication by Mere, the receptionist.
The receptionist’s feedback was in the form of questions, clarifying the message: John Smith wants to book a room for Sunday, the 18th of the month.
By recognizing and addressing communication barriers, you’ll not only overcome obstacles but also enhance your listening skills.
The Quiet Quintet-beginning a meeting
Below are five characters, read their inner thoughts. What is the communication barrier?
Discussion
Have you found yourself in a similar situation as above? The communication barrier is “Fear of Initiation” or “Fear of Speaking Up”. To deal with this problem, one of the characters could take the initiative to break the silence. What are your thoughts on the following suggestions for anyone of the characters to voice their internal thoughts?
1. Start with a simple question: Character 1(at the head of the table) could ask, “Shall we get started?” or “What’s the agenda for today?”
2. Make a gentle comment: Character 2 could say, “It looks like we’re all waiting for someone to start. Why don’t I begin?”
3. Use nonverbal cues: Character 3 could make eye contact, smile, and nod to encourage others to start talking.
By taking the initiative, one person can help break the ice and get the conversation started.
Personal level
The characters are a couple. Let’s name then Abena and Kofi.
Dialogue reproduced
Abena: Where would you like to go on a holiday this year? I would like a beach holiday.
Kofi: I would love to explore some mountains.
Abena: Please would you ring the travel agent tomorrow and book a beach holiday for us both?
Discussion
It appears that Abena and Kofi have different preferences for their holiday. Abena wants a beach holiday, while Kofi wants to explore mountains. Instead of discussing and finding a compromise, Abena seems to be ignoring Kofi’s preference and asks him to book a beach holiday anyway.
This could be an example of a communication barrier called “Selective Listening”. Abena is not considering Kofi’s opinion or trying to find a mutually beneficial solution.
Suggestions for Abena to communicate more effectively:
1. Acknowledge Kofi’s response: Abena could show that she’s heard and considered Kofi’s preference for a mountain holiday. Example: “I understand you’d love to explore some mountains.”
2. Ask open-ended questions: Abena could ask questions to encourage discussion and find a compromise. Example: “What is it about mountains that appeals to you?” or “How about we find a destination that has both beach and mountain activities?”
3. Seek a mutually beneficial solution: Abena could try to find a compromise that meets both their needs. Example: “Why don’t we look for a place with a beach and nearby mountains? That way, we can both get what we want.”
Just for laughs, consider this exchange below.
It appears that the wife has misinterpreted her husband’s compliment, thinking he’s referring to a person named Pearl rather than the gemstone. This leads to a playful and teasing response, implying that her husband might be up to something suspicious!
This conversation showcases the wife’s quick wit, playful jealousy, and the couple’s likely long history of affection and type of rapport.
What options should the husband express:
- Play along: “Oh, Pearl? She’s just a lovely lady I met under the moonlight… 60 years ago, when I married her!”
- Clarify and tease: “Ha! Not a person, my dear. I was comparing your teeth to pearls. But I must say, you’re still as radiant and beautiful as ever!”
- Romantic and sincere: “My love, I was just admiring your beauty in the moonlight. Your teeth shine like pearls, and your heart is even more precious to me.”
