What are the 7 C’s of Communication?
The 7 C’s of communication are a set of principles or guidelines that need to take into consideration when you communicate with others. If one uses the 7 C’s of communication that can ensure the effectiveness of communication.
The 7 C’s of Communication are important to both written and oral communication. These are as follows:
Completeness
Completeness is one of the 7 C’s of communication and means that the message must be complete. Because complete messages help in achieving the desired results without having to incur additional time and money in seeking clarifications and getting piece-meal replies. Complete communication develops and enhances the reputation of an organization.
Complete communication always gives additional information wherever required. It leaves no questions in the mind of the receiver. Complete communication helps in better decision-making by the audience/readers/receivers of the message as they get all desired and crucial information. The sender of the message must take into consideration the receiver‘s mindset and convey the message accordingly.
The following guidelines could be used to check the completeness of the information:
- Check the 5Ws (What, When, Where, Who, and Why) and IH (How) of the message
- Answer all questions raised meticulously
- Give some extra information rather than holding it back
Conciseness
Conciseness is saying the message in the fewest words without sacrificing understanding by the receivers. The message is conveyed in the least possible words without forgoing the other C‘s of communication. By eliminating unwanted words, the importance and emphasis of messages are increased.
Conciseness is a necessity for effective communication. Concise communication is both time-saving as well as cost-saving. A concise message is more appealing and comprehensible to the audience and it is non-repetitive in nature.
The following guidelines could be used to check the conciseness of information:
- Omit dull and long expressions
- Avoid repetition and long winding sentences
- Include relevant facts but with courtesy
- Organize message logically and effectively
Consideration
The message should always be prepared to keep receivers in mind. Consideration requires that the senders should put themselves in the receivers‘ position and then visualize their needs and wants, i.e, the audience‘s viewpoints, background, mindset, education level, etc.
It should be ensured that the self-respect of the audience is maintained and their emotions are not at harm. This will stimulate a positive reaction from the audience. The stress should be on positive words such as jovial, committed, thanks, warm, healthy, help, etc.
The following guidelines could be used to check the consideration in the message:
- Focus on you‖ instead of I‟ or we‟
- Highlight the benefits of the message to the receiver
- Emphasize positive and pleasant aspects of facts
- Imbibe integrity into the message
Concreteness
Concrete communication implies being particular and clear. Communicators should conscientiously avoid vague and general statements. The message should be supported with specific facts and figures. Such messages are not misinterpreted.
The following guidelines could be used to check the concreteness of the message:
- Choose vivid and image-building words in the message
- Use direct and action verbs
- Use specific facts and figures
Clarity
Clarity implies emphasizing a specific message or goal at a time. Special efforts are required to see that messages getting across are fully understood by receivers although they may not have similar experiences, education, and opinions.
Every individual has a unique mental filter that gives different meanings to messages although the text is the same. Clarity makes understanding easier. Complete clarity of thoughts and ideas enhances the meaning of the message.
The following guidelines could be used to check the clarity of information:
- Always choose short, familiar, and conversational words and phrases
- Endeavor to achieve appropriate lengths for sentences and paragraphs
- Support the message with examples, illustrations, and audio-visuals
Courtesy
Courtesy comes from one‘s innate desire to respect others. It implies the message should show the sender‘s expression as well as should respect for the receiver. The courteous message is positive and focused on the audience. It brings in new friends and strengthens old friendships.
The following guidelines could be used to check the courtesy in communication:
- Omit expressions that hurt, are irritating and be-little
- Apologize in good faith
- Answer mail regularly and properly Be appreciative, thoughtful, and honestly factual
Correctness
Correctness in communication implies that there are no grammatical errors in communication. If the communication is correct, it boosts the confidence level.
The correct message has a greater impact on the audience or readers. Incorrect messages may fail to achieve their purpose because receivers found them insulting, humiliating, and overbearing. Messages should be checked for the precision and accuracy of facts and figures.
The following guidelines could be used to check the correctness of the message:
- Using the correct level of language in tune with the receivers
- Incorporating only accurate data and evidence
- Choosing the right words, phrases, and sentences
- Organizing matter systematically into paragraphs of appropriate size
FAQs
What are the 7 C’s of communication?
The 7 C’s of communication are a set of principles or guidelines that need to take into consideration when you communicate with others. If one uses the 7 C’s of communication that can ensure the effectiveness of communication.
7 C’s of Communication:
1. Completeness
2. Conciseness
3. Consideration
4. Concreteness
5. Clarity
6. Courtesy
7. Correctness