Communication is about Information and Relationship

A common mistake that inexperienced business communicators make is to assume that the point of communicating is solely to transfer information. Getting important information from one place to another is critical to the success of any business or organization, but the creation and maintenance of positive human relations is also essential to successful business communication.

Every act of communication carries with it an implied view of the communicator’s relationship. When planning and crafting your messages, be careful not to neglect this important dimension, which can make or break your communication efforts.

Because communication always involves human relations, it also involves ethics. Each message is an effort to engage other persons, shape their attitudes, and influence their behavior. In the realm of business, it is also an occasion to help, hinder, or otherwise affect your organization and those whose welfare depends upon it. Words and other symbols have the power to achieve positive or negative effects. You have an obligation to avoid deception, to enable people to make informed decisions, and to consider all the likely effects of your message to others.

Source: Business Communication – Making connections in a digital world