What is Communication and why it is important?

Communication

Communication is derived from the Latin word ‘Communico’ which means “to share”. Hence the

word “communication” means: the process of sharing. One may ask, sharing what? Obviously – sharing

information, which could be facts, ideas, thoughts, feelings, needs, etc. This sharing takes place from one

person to another so that it is understood. This process involves systematic and continuous process of

speaking, listening, and understanding. Therefore,

Communication is a process, which involves sharing of information between people through a

continuous activity of speaking, listening, and understanding

Why is Communication Important?

Communication is a learned skill. Most people are born with the physical ability to talk. But in

order to speak well and communicate effectively you have to learn the art and improve upon your ability

to talk. Speaking, listening, and our ability to understand verbal and nonverbal meanings are the skills we

develop in various ways. We learn basic communication skills by observing other people and changing

our behaviors based on what we see. We also learn communication skills directly through education,

practice and constant evaluation of the responses we get from people around us.

Importance of communication has always been realized in all times because it is the most vital

means by which people are connected together in the society. However, today communication plays a

crucial role in almost all aspects of life. Work in business, government or organizations are impossible

without communication. People have to communicate with each other, exchange information, make

decisions, talk about new ideas, plans, proposals etc. They also have to communicate externally with

foreigners and people of other races and languages.

For a moment, turn your eyes inward and see how much of your waking hours you spend in

communication. Nearly 70% – writing, reading, speaking, & listening. As a college student, 69 percent of

your communication time is spent on speaking and listening. You spend 17 percent of your

communication time on reading and 14 percent writing.

Don’t forget, therefore, that communication is inevitable in one’s life. Today, in this age & world, a

successful person is the one - who can communicate effectively