Barriers to Communication (Edexcel IGCSE Business)
Exam board Pearson Edexcel · IGCSEUpdated 2025-06-23
How communication barriers arise
Spec point —
2.1.2· Jargon, many layers in hierarchy etc
- Barriers to communication hinder the flow of information, leading to potential misunderstandings, conflicts and inefficiency
Typical barriers to communication
| Barrier | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Hierarchical and structural barriers | - Employees may feel hesitant to communicate with their superiors due to fear of repercussions or a perceived lack of accessibility - This can impede the free flow of information and ideas within the business - There may be too many layers in the hierarchy, meaning messages take a long time to get from the sender to the receiver |
| Language and jargon | - The use of technical terminology or industry-specific jargon can be misunderstood - Industry- or business-specific **acronyms can confuse new staff - Staff in businesses that operate across international borders may speak different languages |
| Noise and distractions | - Loud machinery or a crowded workspace can interfere with effective communication - Distractions, including phone notifications and email alerts, can divert attention |
| Lack of feedback | - The absence of feedback can affect understanding and lead to misunderstandings - Messages may require urgent clarification or correction to avoid mistakes being made |
| Cultural differences | - Cultural norms** and expectations can affect communication style |
| Lack of time | - Busy work schedules and competing priorities can limit the time available for communication |
| Technological barriers | - Technical issues such as poor internet connections, malfunctioning equipment or unfamiliarity with platforms can slow communication |
Ways to improve communication
Spec point —
2.1.2· Restructuring hierarchy, training etc
-
A business can use a variety of strategies to try to improve communication methods internally and externally
- Barriers causing ineffective communication may need to be removed
- Organisations should encourage open communication, consider providing training on effective communication techniques and encourage a culture of transparency and collaboration to overcome these obstacles
-
Many businesses put strategies in place to encourage good communication before any problems arise
- A good long-term investment may be a subscription to a communications app such as Slack that allows employees to interact with each other
Removing ineffective communication from a business
| Barrier | Reducing or removing the barrier |
|---|---|
| Hierarchical or structural barrier | - Encourage two-way feedback so employees feel comfortable talking to various employees, regardless of their position in the organisation - E.g. Regular one-to-one meetings with line managers |
| Language and jargon | - The use of jargon or terms which are too technical should be minimised - An agreed-upon language for key communications is implemented |
| Noise and distractions | - Choose communication methods that are relevant to the workplace - Setup a room on the factory floor in which conversations can be had - Limit distractions such as pop-up messages and unnecessary emails - Trailfinders in the UK does not allow their employees to keep their personal phones on them during working hours - they are stored in a locker |
| Lack of feedback | - Where appropriate, select methods that allow for feedback - Encourage an open culture where employees are confident in giving feedback |
| Cultural differences | - Build a culture of teamwork and respect amongst employees - Include cultural awareness in training and development programmes |
| Lack of time | - Schedule meetings in shared calendars - Amend workloads to ensure effective communication can take place |
| Technological barriers | - Invest in good-quality ICT systems and conduct regular updates and maintenance to avoid slow or poor-quality connections - Provide training for employees who need it - E.g. How to use a new communications app and send instant messages to other employees |
Exam Hint Barriers to communication always need to be identified in the context of the exam question, as different barriers will exist for different types of businesses. For example, you may be asked to state a communication barrier to a particular company or explain the communication barrier that exists
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