Barriers to Communication and How to Overcome Them

A closed door, an exasperated expression, a noisy workstation, a cultural misunderstanding—all of these are examples of “noise,” a general term for anything that gets in the way of effective communication. The key to overcoming communication barriers is to be able to identify and understand them. This program explains the various types of noise and details specific examples of physical, organizational, emotional, nonverbal, cultural, language-related or written barriers. Through expert interviews and creative vignettes, the video offers solutions to overcoming these common communication barriers.

Common Communication Barriers (04:35)
Learn the seven types of barriers and their components. Experts explain noise and distortion.

Physical and Organizational Communication Barriers (02:28)
Learn three types of physical communication barriers. Experts provide examples of noise and organizational barriers.

Physical and Organizational Communication Barriers: Solutions (02:22)
Solutions include: open office spaces, an open door policy, two-way communication, adequate technology, quiet places, and adequate timing.

Emotional and Nonverbal Communication Barriers (03:11)
See an example of emotional communication. Emotional hinders include: anger, pride, depression, anxiety. Nonverbal barriers result from the way we physically behave.

Emotional and Nonverbal Communication Barriers: Solutions (02:06)
Learn ways to overcome emotional and nonverbal barriers.

Cultural and Language Communication Barriers: Cultural (02:53)
Cultural nuances that can hinder communication include: eye contact, hand extending, business cards, smiling, emotional expression, stereotyping

Cultural and Language Communication Barriers: Language (01:51)
Meaning can be lost in translation. Examples of barriers for those who speak the same language include: jargon, acronyms, and technical terms.

Cultural and Language Communication Barriers: Solutions (02:58)
Learn six strategies for overcoming communication barriers and ways to manage cross-cultural communication.

Written Communication Barriers (03:01)
Barriers in text messages and emails include: lack of body language and vocal intonation, emoticons, information overload, interpretation, grammar, and spelling.

Written Communication Barriers: Solutions (04:31)
Learn eight actions and techniques that can eliminate barriers.

Summary: Barriers to Communication (03:39)
Review the seven types of barriers in communication and how to overcome them.

Credits: Barriers to Communication and How to Overcome Them (00:39)

Grade: 6-8, 9-12

Barriers to Communication and How to Overcome Them (DVD)
ISBN: 978-1-60057-589-1
© 2015
Time: 35 Minutes